Mehbooba Mufti Slams Authorities for Restricting Daughter Iltija Mufti from Holding Press Conference
Srinagar: PDP president Mehbooba Mufti criticized authorities on Sunday for barring her daughter and party leader Iltija Mufti from addressing a press conference in Jammu, calling the move an attack on democratic rights.
“Offering solace to victims’ families has been criminalized. This is evident as police have detained Iltija at the Circuit House in Jammu, preventing her from addressing the press,” Mehbooba said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Earlier in the day, Iltija visited the family of a young man in Kathua district who had recently died by suicide, allegedly following police torture over suspected links to terrorism. The incident has sparked outrage.
Mehbooba lambasted the ruling party for its narrow interpretation of democracy, claiming that its focus is solely on holding elections while neglecting fundamental rights.
“This disregard for democratic rights as free citizens is deeply troubling. It appears the ruling party equates democracy with merely conducting elections and forming governments, ignoring the fundamental freedoms that form the bedrock of a true democracy,” she said.
The former chief minister also pointed out what she called “ironic and unfortunate” police bias, stating that a National Conference minister’s visit to Billawar was facilitated, while Iltija faced obstacles and punishment for doing the same.
“It’s disheartening that Iltija had to endure immense challenges and travel in secrecy, just to console a grieving family. The ruling party has conveniently shirked responsibility, blaming everything on the Lieutenant Governor. However, as a responsible opposition, the PDP will continue to reach out to people and offer support,” Mehbooba said in another post on X.
The incident that prompted Iltija’s visit involved the death of 25-year-old Gujjar youth Makhan Din from Billawar in Kathua. On Tuesday evening, Din consumed poison at his home, recording his final moments in a video where he professed his innocence and denied any ties to terrorism.
His death has led to separate investigations by the police and local administration. Meanwhile, the PDP has vowed to stand with the victim’s family and ensure accountability in the case.
