Srinagar, Nov 4: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti visited the Mirwaiz Manzil in Nigeen on Monday to extend condolences over the demise of Mirwaiz Moulvi Muhammad Ahmad Shah, son of Mirwaiz Yousuf Shah. Expressing her sorrow, Mehbooba remarked that it was “unfortunate” that families divided by the Line of Control (LoC) were not allowed to mourn together, adding that the Mirwaiz family should have been permitted to unite in their time of grief.
Speaking to reporters outside the Mirwaiz Manzil, Mehbooba said, “It is heartbreaking to hear of the demise of Moulvi Ahmad Shah Sahib, and even more tragic that Mirwaiz Umar Sahib was prevented from attending the funeral. I fail to understand why this government takes such steps, which only remind the people of Kashmir that they are not part of a democratic nation but rather under a form of repression.”
Mehbooba also highlighted the vision of the PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who advocated for open cross-border movement to foster peace. “Mufti Sahib believed that the walls dividing us should be dismantled, allowing people from both sides to connect and promote a dignified solution to the Kashmir issue. When families like the Mirwaiz’s, who were exiled from their homeland, lose a loved one, they should at least be allowed to come together and perform last rites.”
Reflecting on the denial of permission to Mirwiaz for even a prayer absentia at Srinagar, she added, “This situation speaks volumes about Kashmir’s painful story and history. Without addressing the Kashmir issue, without healing these wounds, the central government has no other path forward to ensure peace and reconciliation.”
