Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday alleged that funds meant for development, education, employment, and public welfare are being diverted to purchase weapons.
Speaking at a public gathering in Jammu on the occasion of the PDP’s 26th foundation anniversary, Mufti said, “Conflicts and wars serve the interests of global arms industries, and regions like Jammu and Kashmir are often used as battlegrounds to facilitate this.”
She claimed that even a minor incident in Jammu or Kashmir could potentially trigger a larger conflict. “If a powerful country wants to spark a war between India and Pakistan, all it takes is one blast in Kashmir or Jammu. A war begins, and weapons start selling,” she said.
Mufti named countries such as China, the United States, Israel, and Germany as major global arms exporters who, according to her, profit from prolonged conflicts. “They can only sell weapons when India and Pakistan are at odds,” she added.
She also criticised the current national security approach, saying it comes at the cost of addressing poverty and unemployment. “We provide free food to 80 crore people, yet we cannot create jobs. The same money could be used to combat poverty,” she said.
Highlighting the poor condition of public services, Mufti said, “There are no doctors in hospitals, no medicines, and even no fans in schools. That’s because most funds are being spent on arms.”
She drew a comparison between India and Pakistan, noting that while Pakistan is struggling with debt, India—despite its size and resources—is also held back due to a war-centric mindset. “The desire for war, and unresolved issues in Jammu and Kashmir, continue to obstruct progress,” she said.
Reflecting on her father Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s vision, she recalled his belief that peace with Pakistan was essential for growth in Jammu and Kashmir. “He always said that without peace, we cannot end poverty, generate jobs, or provide electricity to every home.”
Mufti further pointed out the contradiction in Jammu and Kashmir’s economic status. “We have abundant natural resources—our water powers electricity for the rest of the country, our minerals are mined—but we remain economically backward. Our educated youth are still waiting for opportunities,” she said.
Raising concerns over regional imbalance, she said Jammu is often neglected in national discourse. “Kashmir is discussed daily, even internationally. But who talks about Jammu, except during elections?” she asked.
She also took a swipe at the BJP and National Conference over governance since 2018. “The BJP had power in Delhi and Jammu and Kashmir. What did it deliver for Jammu? Unemployment and inflation are still rampant,” she said.
Mufti criticised unfulfilled election promises like free electricity, subsidised LPG, and job guarantees. “One year has passed—what happened to those promises?” she asked.
She concluded by stressing that lasting peace is essential for meaningful progress. “Without peace, nothing will change in Jammu and Kashmir,” she said. (AGENCIES)
