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SRINAGAR SEPT 19:Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah urging a “compassionate and urgent review” of the case of jailed separatist leader Yasin Malik.
In a detailed letter addressed to Shah, Mehbooba Mufti appealed for reconsideration on humanitarian grounds, stressing Malik’s transformation from militancy to non-violent political engagement. She recalled that in 1994 Malik laid down arms and chose the path of peaceful politics, renouncing violence to pursue change through dialogue.
The PDP chief highlighted that Malik’s role as a bridge during back-channel talks with Indian agencies was carried out with official consent, and his efforts contributed to reconciliation attempts in a fractured region. She noted that Malik participated in government-cleared dialogues, including interactions involving intelligence officials and controversial figures, in efforts to build peace.
“Closing the door forever on a man who once chose peace risks shattering the fragile trust essential for meaningful dialogue,” Mehbooba wrote, warning that such an outcome could deepen alienation and perpetuate conflict in Kashmir.
The former CM underlined that Malik’s case should be reviewed not to undermine judicial authority but to exercise “democratic instruments that honor both justice and mercy.” She added that the spirit of India lies in its capacity for magnanimity and in upholding promises made in pursuit of peace.
Calling on the Home Minister to show statesmanship, Mehbooba said: “Brute force must give way to the healing touch of dialogue, and constitutional rights must be restored. A compassionate reassessment of Yasin Malik’s case would not only uphold justice but also keep alive hope for reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir.”