Srinagar, May 20 : Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has strongly urged the government to compensate border residents who have suffered total losses due to cross-border shelling, recommending a minimum of Rs 50 lakh for each affected family. She also demanded that these residents be formally recognized as “war victims” given the extent of destruction they have faced over the years.
After her recent visits to Poonch, Tangdhar, and other border areas, Mehbooba Mufti said she was left shocked at the deplorable conditions in which civilians are living. “Even today, people are spending nights under the open sky with no shelter, no security, and no support from the government. Lives have been lost, homes have been flattened, and livelihoods destroyed. Yet, there is no sign of relief,” she said while addressing the media.
Mehbooba Mufti criticized the administration for failing to respond meaningfully to the crisis. “Not a single rupee has been given to the shelling victims so far. The government’s apathy is painful,” she remarked. She demanded that the next of kin of those killed in shelling incidents be provided government jobs and that shopkeepers who suffered losses without any insurance coverage be compensated adequately.
The former CM also expressed serious concern over the crumbling healthcare system in Poonch, saying that the absence of ventilators in hospitals has become a “source of death” rather than healing. “Improving the health infrastructure in border districts like Poonch must be treated as an urgent priority,” she said.
Highlighting the need for better civilian protection, Mufti demanded the immediate construction of more underground bunkers. “It is heartbreaking that in the 21st century, when the rest of the world talks about progress, our border residents are forced to ask for bunkers and roofs over their heads instead of education or healthcare,” she added.
In response to a question, Mehbooba Mufti said that war is not an option.
Mufti concluded by expressing deep grief over the continued neglect of border dwellers and called upon the government to respond with compassion and accountability to those living under constant threat. [KNT]
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