Srinagar, Sep 7: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Monday accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of failing to address issues concerning youth and different sections of society, alleging that unemployment, inflation, education and healthcare problems were worsening across the Union Territory.
Addressing a youth interaction programme in Kupwara, Mufti said the purpose of her visit was to engage with young people and understand their concerns, particularly regarding unemployment, education, women’s safety and employment opportunities.
She said the youth of J&K were facing growing disappointment and alleged that the elected government had failed to deliver on issues affecting them. She also questioned the government over recruitment policies and the status of the Rationalization of Reservation Committee report.
Mufti strongly backed protesting medical interns and demanded an increase in their stipend. She alleged that interns had received assurances regarding a hike but later intensified their agitation after the promised increase did not materialise.
“We are with the medical interns and we will stand with them till they don’t get a hike in their medical stipend,” she said.
She also questioned the JKSSB notification for Multi-Tasking Staff posts and asked why the government could not withdraw it.
On employment, Mufti alleged irregularities in government recruitment and accused the National Conference government of outsourcing or “selling” government jobs. She questioned where unemployed youth would go if adequate employment opportunities were not created.
The PDP leader also criticised the government over its position on Article 370 and alleged that her party faced restrictions while programmes organised by the ruling party were facilitated.
Mufti further raised concerns over Kashmiri youth lodged in jails under laws including UAPA and PSA. She said many families from economically weaker backgrounds struggled to meet legal expenses or travel outside J&K to meet relatives in prisons.
Calling for a compassionate approach, she demanded the unconditional release of detainees from J&K and urged greater dialogue between the Centre and the people of the Union Territory.
She also highlighted concerns over healthcare and connectivity in north Kashmir and called for better healthcare infrastructure, including a super-speciality hospital in the region.
