Calls for Political Dialogue and Regional Brotherhood to End Cycles of Violence
Srinagar, May 10 – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that it would lead to a lasting peace in the region.In a video message shared by her party, Mufti said, “This is a good news for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have been suffering due to the cross-border shelling over the past few days. I am sure the news has brought a sigh of relief even across the border.”
She underscored that terrorism was unacceptable and should not be tolerated, but insisted that the actions of terrorists must not dictate the course of peace or conflict between the two nations. “Terrorists should not determine when there should be war or peace between India and Pakistan,” she asserted.
"Military Solution is No Solution"
Mufti reiterated her long-held position that a military approach cannot bring a resolution to the Indo-Pak conflict. “Military solution is no solution. Ultimately, there should be a political intervention,” she said, advocating for constructive dialogue and political engagement to address underlying issues.India Should Lead with Maturity and Strength
Urging India to take the initiative in fostering peace in the subcontinent, she said, “Our country is huge, it should play the role of a big brother not just with Pakistan, but with the whole region so that there is permanent peace and people prosper.”Mufti expressed optimism about the ceasefire’s potential to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for meaningful discussions. Referring to US President Donald Trump's announcement of the ceasefire, she remarked, “I am very happy with the news given by Trump. It has brought a message of peace not just for J-K, but the whole region.”
Hope for Permanent Peace
Concluding her message, Mufti voiced hope that both nations would pursue dialogue and diplomatic efforts to resolve differences and ensure enduring peace. “I hope both the countries will sit together and resolve their issues and find a way to establish lasting peace in the coming times — the peace which is permanent and not affected by an incident,” she said.The ceasefire announcement has been widely welcomed amid ongoing tensions, offering a rare moment of relief to civilians in border areas and igniting fresh hopes for reconciliation in the region.