Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday urged both India and Pakistan to show restraint and resolve their escalating tensions through dialogue, warning that further escalation would bring only destruction and suffering, especially to innocent civilians and children.
Speaking tearfully during a press conference in Srinagar, Mehbooba expressed her concern over the mounting casualties, particularly among innocent children.
“What is the fault of innocent children who have lost their lives? Casualties on the borders are deeply unfortunate,” Mehbooba said. “Immediate restraint and de-escalation are the need of the hour. It is crucial to apply wisdom in handling the present situation.”
She said that violence, whether in places like Pulwama or Pahalgam, has the potential to spiral out of control with global consequences.
“Both regions are under distress. If this continues, the whole world could be dragged into chaos,” she warned.
Recalling the deadly aftermath of the Pulwama attack, Mehbooba said that the situation following the recent Pahalgam terror attack has pushed the two nations dangerously close to war.
“After Pulwama, we all saw what happened. Now, following the Pahalgam terror attack, both nations stand dangerously close to the brink of war.”
She questioned the justification for civilian deaths amidst military operations.
“Both countries claim they’ve achieved their military targets – Pakistan claims it hit a brigade headquarters in Jammu, and India says terrorist hubs have been neutralized. But what is the fault of the minor children who are dying in the crossfire?” she asked.
Mehbooba pointed out that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are the ones who are truly suffering in the middle of this conflict.
“It is the people of Jammu and Kashmir who suffer in between. If a nuclear conflict breaks out, who will be left alive to claim victory?” she questioned.
In her heartfelt plea, she urged both nations to stop the violence and seek peace.
“I request both nations please stop now. ‘Jeeyo aur jeene do,’” she said, adding, “War and violence are against the spirit of humanity. Military action is not a solution; it only addresses the symptoms, not the root causes.”
