Mehbooba Mufti condemns Delhi blast, Says ‘If involvement proven, it is shameful’

Srinagar, November 12: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti today expressed strong condemnation over the recent Delhi blast, calling the incident “tragic and deeply disturbing,” while also voicing concern about reports suggesting the possible involvement of Kashmiri doctors in the case. Speaking to reporters, she said the news was “unfortunate and painful,” particularly because those named are individuals who belong to the respected and educated sections of Kashmiri society.

Mufti said that if the allegations against the doctors are proven after a clean and transparent investigation, it would be “a moment of collective introspection for Jammu and Kashmir and for the Muslim community.” She stressed that the incident must not be allowed to undermine the dignity of professionals who have dedicated their lives to public service.

She appealed to the authorities to conduct a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation, cautioning against pre-judgment or harassment of families. “I condemn the blast and the loss of innocent lives in the strongest possible terms. But it is equally troubling that names of doctors are emerging—people who save lives every single day. If, after an honest investigation, they are indeed guilty, it will be a matter of immense shame and reflection for all of us,” she said.

Mufti warned that such cases could have a broader social fallout, especially for Kashmiris living, studying, or working outside the region. “These incidents create additional challenges for our youth who are trying to build careers across the country. Our best minds are already under pressure, and such allegations, whether proven or not, cast long shadows,” she added.

The PDP chief also criticised the alleged harsh treatment of the families of the accused. She termed the reported dragging and blindfolding of a doctor’s father “inhumane, unjust, and unacceptable,” insisting that relatives should not be punished for the alleged crimes of others. “What is the fault of a parent? Authorities can question relatives if necessary, but they cannot be treated as criminals. Such behaviour is neither legal nor moral,” she said.

Recalling past experiences in Kashmir, Mufti urged the government to ensure that the line between the accused and their families is not blurred. She acknowledged the anguish of victims’ families in Delhi while reminding the administration that dignity and justice must be upheld at all levels. “Those who are guilty should face the strictest punishment. But their families deserve respect and humane treatment. Arresting or humiliating people without evidence sends a very wrong message,” she said.

Earlier in the day, Mehbooba Mufti also welcomed Qaisar Sultan, a former member of Ghulam Nabi Azad’s party, into the PDP, describing his joining as a positive development that would strengthen the party’s grassroots presence and political outreach.