Mehbooba Mufti Argues Facade of Normalcy Lacks True Peace in Jammu and Kashmir

Yesterday, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Mehbooba Mufti authored an opinion piece in a published report titled “In Jammu & Kashmir, a facade of normalcy cannot substitute for peace,” critiquing the perception of stability in the region. The article emphasizes that superficial indicators of normalcy—such as administrative functioning or infrastructure projects—do not equate to lasting peace, which Mufti argues requires addressing underlying political and social grievances.

Mufti’s commentary arrives amid ongoing debates about the region’s governance since the abrogation of its special status in August 2019. While the central government has highlighted developmental initiatives and improved security metrics as signs of progress, Mufti contends that these measures fail to resolve deeper discontent among the population. Her argument centers on the distinction between enforced order and genuine reconciliation, suggesting that the absence of overt violence does not inherently signal peace.

The piece does not explicitly reference recent events but contextualizes the region’s trajectory within a broader narrative of political marginalization. Mufti, who served as Jammu & Kashmir’s chief minister from 2016 to 2018, has consistently advocated for dialogue and restoration of autonomous institutions. Her latest article reinforces this stance, implying that sustainable peace demands inclusive political processes rather than top-down administrative solutions.

The Indian government has not publicly responded to Mufti’s critique. Officials have previously maintained that the revocation of Article 370 has enabled greater integration and economic growth, though critics argue that such claims overlook persistent restrictions on civil liberties and political representation. The gap between these perspectives underscores the contentious nature of Jammu & Kashmir’s current status, with Mufti’s article serving as a reminder of unresolved tensions.

What remains unclear is whether such critiques will influence policy or prompt renewed efforts at engagement. With the region’s political landscape remaining tightly controlled, the disparity between official narratives and on-ground realities continues to shape its trajectory.