ibn sultan
Srinagar, Oct 10: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Friday lashed out at the National Conference (NC) for introducing a private member’s bill on land protection in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, terming it a “political drama” when the party already holds a majority in the House.
Addressing reporters, Mehbooba questioned the intent behind NC’s move, saying, “What is the fun of a private member’s bill when the party has over 50 MLAs? If you really want to protect people’s land, bring the bill as the government.”
She said the government must act to safeguard the interests of locals until statehood is restored. “After 2019, laws have been enacted under which outsiders can grab land. It is being done in the name of industry and development. Even land has been given to the security forces, just call it strategic land and it’s done. This is happening not only in Kashmir but in Ladakh as well,” she said.
Mehbooba Mufti alleged that playgrounds and community spaces are also being taken over, leaving locals deprived of basic rights. “What kind of justice is this when people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh face such injustice?” she asked.
Criticizing the NC further, she said, “What is this drama where your MLA brings a private bill and uploads it on the internet? If you didn’t accept PDP’s bill, then bring one yourself as the ruling party.”
She also targeted Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, saying that as an MLA, he should use his legislative power to stand up for people’s rights. “Lawmakers are supposed to make laws and defend the interests of the public, not stay silent,” she remarked.
On the international front, Mehbooba welcomed the peace deal between Hamas and Israel, expressing hope that “the bloodshed in Gaza will finally stop.” [KNT]
