PDP to Hold Peaceful Protests for Article 370 Restoration in Jammu and Kashmir

PDP Announces Statewide Protests

On July 28, in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), announced that her party will organize peaceful protests across all district headquarters in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5. This announcement was made during a press conference at the party headquarters, coinciding with the PDP's 27th foundation day. Mufti stated, “All of us present here will peacefully protest in our respective districts on August 5 for the restoration of Article 370 and 35A, as well as for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue.”

Mehbooba Mufti also expressed regret for her earlier comments made at Jantar Mantar in the national capital. Leaders from the ruling National Conference, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, criticized her remarks, accusing her of justifying the use of force against Kashmiri protesters. Mufti responded, “If my comments regarding violence against protesters in Kashmir have hurt anyone, I apologize.”

On July 23, Mufti visited Jantar Mantar to support protests led by the 'Cockroach Public Party' (COPA) against alleged irregularities in examinations. While opposing police actions against student protesters in Delhi, she remarked that the situation in Kashmir is different due to security forces combating terrorism.

Her comments drew sharp reactions from opposition parties, including the National Conference. However, the PDP accused the ruling National Conference of distorting Mufti's statements using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.