Kashmiris Have Chosen Peace Over Bloodshed: Mehbooba Mufti
Srinagar, May 5: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has said that the people of Kashmir have made it clear they reject violence and bloodshed, especially in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Speaking to the media during her visit to the affected area, Mufti emphasized that the collective response of Kashmiris has been one of condemnation and solidarity with the nation, not silence or complicity.
“In the aftermath of this brutal attack, the people of Kashmir have sent a powerful message—they do not support violence. They have come out in protest, voiced their outrage, and demonstrated that they stand with the country in this time of sorrow,” Mufti stated.
Highlighting Pahalgam’s historic role in maintaining communal harmony, Mufti praised the local residents—especially those associated with the tourism industry—for their resilience and humanity. “Even at the height of militancy, when guns echoed through the valley, the people of Pahalgam upheld peace and brotherhood. They kept the annual Amarnath Yatra going, carrying pilgrims on horses and sometimes even on their shoulders. Their spirit has always been inclusive,” she said.
Mufti called on the Government to distinguish between perpetrators and innocents. “The Government must ensure that its response is fair and just. Innocent civilians, who are themselves victims of terrorism, should not be targeted under the pretext of action. The focus must remain on bringing the real culprits to justice,” she asserted.
She expressed concern over the closure of key tourist spots in Pahalgam, including Aru and Chandanwari, in the aftermath of the attack. “At a time when tourists are showing bravery by coming to Kashmir despite recent incidents, the administration is shutting down these sites. This sends the wrong message. If everything is closed, what are you really telling the world—are you inviting tourists, or warning them away?” she questioned.
Instead of shutting down tourism, she urged the administration to strengthen security and ensure a safe and welcoming environment. “The solution is not to close Pahalgam but to secure it. Tourists travel from far to visit the beauty of Kashmir—they deserve safety, not restrictions,” she said.
Calling for immediate economic assistance to those in the tourism sector who have been badly affected by the attack, Mufti reminded the Centre of the precedent set by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. “Vajpayee Ji, during his tenure, announced a special relief package for pony owners and tourism workers in Pahalgam. Today, as we approach the yatra season, similar support is needed. At the very least, pony walas and small tourism operators should be granted a moratorium on loan interest this year,” she appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The PDP president said that Kashmiris have taken meaningful steps toward peace and reconciliation, and now it is the Government’s responsibility to reciprocate. “We have reached out with hope. It is time for the Centre to reduce the emotional and political distance and engage meaningfully with the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
During her visit, Mufti also interacted warmly with tourists preparing for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra. Sharing her experience on social media platform ‘X’, she recalled an emotional moment when a group of tourists from Mumbai gifted her a box of mangoes and expressed their appreciation. “Their smiles, their warmth, and above all, their lack of fear—even in the aftermath of such a horrific event—was deeply moving,” she wrote.
“Their presence here is more than tourism—it is a silent yet powerful expression of trust in Kashmir and its people. It symbolizes healing, courage, and a belief in peace. I salute that courage and that trust,” Mufti concluded.
