Mehbooba Mufti Criticizes Polarizing Statements, Calls Out Bihar CM for Not Intervening

Srinagar, Dec 19, KNT: Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over what she described as increasingly polarising statements by Union Minister Giriraj Singh, arguing that such remarks undermine the secular foundation on which India was built. Addressing a press conference, Mufti said the values championed by Mahatma Gandhi formed the moral bedrock of the nation and were essential to maintaining communal harmony.

She stated that the ongoing political climate reminded her more of a “Kaurav Rajya” than “Ram Rajya,” adding that injustice and disrespect, particularly towards women, were becoming disturbingly common in public discourse. According to her, these trends reflect a widening departure from India’s long-standing commitment to unity and mutual respect.

Mufti said she was not surprised by repeated instances of divisive language from leaders who have often used such rhetoric, but she expressed deep disappointment at the silence of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. She noted that as a constitutional authority, Kumar had an obligation to intervene and uphold accountability at a time when political responsibility was most needed.

Mufti added that silence in the face of inflammatory speech only contributes to further divisions, and she urged political leadership across the country to act with fairness and restraint. ​[KNT]