NC must clarify stand on divisional status for Pir Panjal, Chenab Valley: Mehbooba

Jammu, Jan 20: People’s Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asked the National Conference to come out with a clear and unambiguous stand on the long-pending demand for divisional status for the Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley regions, saying the issue was rooted in administrative necessity and not political rhetoric.
Addressing a press conference here, Mufti said the demand was “absolutely genuine” given the difficult terrain, fragile environment, far-flung habitations, and lack of adequate access to basic services in both regions.
“Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley face serious administrative neglect. Their topography, vulnerability to environmental hazards, and distance from decision-making centres make divisional status the need of the hour,” she said, adding that governance must reach people at their doorstep, especially in border and mountainous areas.
Mufti accused both the National Conference and the BJP of being on the “same page” when it comes to criticising the PDP for raising the issue. “It is ironic that parties responsible for dividing regions for political convenience are questioning us for speaking up for the marginalised,” she said.
Drawing a historical parallel and on making allegations against Mehbooba Mufti of supporting Dixons Plan she reminded NC president Farooq Abdullah, the PDP chief said that Sheikh Abdullah’s covert support for the Dixon Plan had led to his arrest in 1953. “Today, raising legitimate demands for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley is once again being portrayed as divisive,” she said.
She alleged that the BJP had weakened the political and administrative interests of the Pir Panjal region, and by extension Chenab Valley, under the guise of delimitation. “These decisions were taken to serve narrow electoral interests, not the welfare of the people,” Mufti said.
Emphasising Jammu and Kashmir’s status as a border region, she said areas like Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley face compounded challenges. “Environmental risks, strategic vulnerabilities, and lack of infrastructure demand focused administrative attention,” she added.
Mufti said governments must prioritise rights and dignity after securing votes. “Instead of addressing genuine grievances, the PDP is being targeted simply for raising the voice of those who have remained unheard for decades,” she said.
She asserted that seeking divisional status for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley was about fairness and governance. “This is not about politics. It is about administrative justice and equal opportunity,” Mufti said, adding that the PDP would continue to stand with the people of both regions. (KNS)