Mehbooba Mufti Backs Mamata Banerjee Amid ED Raids

In a show of solidarity, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti has come out in support of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, labeling her a lioness amid ongoing ED raids. Mufti criticized the silence of political parties during past arrests in Jammu and Kashmir and warned against the implications of demands for a separate Jammu state. She also condemned the closure of a medical institute, urging for government accountability. This article delves into the political landscape and challenges faced by leaders in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 9, 2026, 17:23 IST

Support for Mamata Banerjee

PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti has praised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, referring to her as a lioness and asserting her bravery in the face of challenges. Following the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) raid on the TMC's office in Kolkata, Mufti expressed her belief that Banerjee would not yield easily. She remarked that Jammu and Kashmir has become a testing ground for such actions, which are now spreading to other states as well. The frequent raids by central agencies like the NIA and ED are becoming a common occurrence.

Call for Courage

Mufti expressed her hope that Banerjee would remain courageous, emphasizing her strength in confronting these issues. She referenced the arrests of herself, Farooq Abdullah, and Omar Abdullah following the abrogation of Article 370, noting that many political parties remained silent during those raids. She pointed out that this silence is now evident across the nation.

Concerns Over Statehood Demands

When asked about the demand for a separate state for the Jammu region, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir stated that such a move would be inappropriate. She warned that the current atmosphere in Jammu suggests a rejection of the alliance between Jammu and Kashmir and India, which would validate Jinnah's two-nation theory. Mufti cautioned that dividing Jammu and Kashmir based on religion would be a grave mistake.

Criticism of Closure of Medical Institute

Discussing the closure of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Reasi district, Mufti criticized the decision and called for intervention from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. She highlighted that the issue extends beyond the transfer of students currently enrolled in the college; it is about the broader implications of such government actions.