Srinagar, May 10 — Political leaders across Jammu and Kashmir welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on Saturday, expressing cautious optimism for sustained peace in the region.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries agreed to halt all military actions on land, air, and sea from 5 PM on Saturday. The announcement followed a statement from US President Donald Trump, confirming that both nations had reached a “full and immediate” ceasefire after US-mediated talks.
Omar Abdullah: “Better Late Than Never”
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the move, noting that the ceasefire could have prevented recent casualties had it been implemented earlier.“Better late than never. Had this ceasefire come two or three days earlier, perhaps the bloodshed we saw and the precious lives we lost would have been safe,” he said while speaking to reporters at his residence.
Abdullah stressed that the state government now bears the responsibility to provide compensation and relief to victims of the recent violence, highlighting extensive damage in border areas like Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, and Tangdhar. He also expressed hope for the resumption of Haj flights, which had been suspended due to the airport closure.
Farooq Abdullah: “Ceasefire Will Alleviate Suffering”
National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah echoed the sentiment, calling the ceasefire a vital step towards ending hostilities. In a statement issued from party headquarters, he acknowledged the hardships faced by civilians along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB).“Our people have borne the brunt of the deteriorating situation between the two neighbouring countries. This measure will greatly alleviate their suffering,” he said.
While endorsing peace efforts, Abdullah underlined that Pakistan must take responsibility to address India's concerns on cross-border terrorism for any trust to be rebuilt.
Mehbooba Mufti: “Terrorism Should Not Decide War or Peace”
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti called the ceasefire a welcome relief for residents affected by the shelling. In a video message, she emphasized that a military approach alone cannot bring a lasting solution.“Terrorism is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. But terrorists should not decide when there should be war or peace between India and Pakistan,” she said.
Urging India to take the lead in fostering regional peace, Mufti stated, “Our country is huge, and it should play the role of a big brother in the region to ensure prosperity and harmony.”
Wider Political Support Across the Spectrum
Senior CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami also welcomed the announcement, saying it brings much-needed relief to border communities. Peoples' Conference chief Sajad Lone noted a “sense of relief everywhere,” and appealed for collective efforts to help residents rebuild their lives.All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina called the ceasefire a “significant development” that could restore mutual trust and dialogue between the two nations.
“This decision will not only help establish peace along the borders but also pave the way for resolving all outstanding issues through dialogue,” Raina said.
As voices across political lines in Jammu and Kashmir rallied behind the ceasefire, the hope remains that this development will mark the beginning of a sustained era of peace and stability for the region.