Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti made an emotional appeal on Friday, May 9, 2025, for immediate de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, following a spate of deadly cross-border hostilities. Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, Mufti highlighted the tragic human cost of the ongoing violence, which has intensified since the retaliatory airstrike known as 'Operation Sindoor' on April 22, targeting terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
The recent escalation has resulted in the death of civilians, including children, along the Line of Control (LoC). Just hours before Mufti's press conference, overnight shelling in the border areas of Kashmir led to the death of a 45-year-old woman in Uri, while three others were injured. In a particularly heartbreaking moment, Mufti recalled the deaths of two children from Poonch, Ayaan and Aruba, who were killed during initial bouts of cross-border shelling. She also mentioned Irtiza Abbas, a seven-year-old who lost his life on the other side of Kashmir. "What was the fault of those innocent children who lost their lives? These killings along the border are heartbreaking," she said, visibly shaken.
Mufti urged both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to initiate direct political dialogue, emphasizing that military actions, such as the Balakot strike following the Pulwama attack, do not resolve underlying issues. "Military action treats symptoms, not the root cause. It never provides a solution or peace," she stated. Echoing Modi's earlier sentiments during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, she insisted that the "era of war is over" and called for political intervention instead of military escalation.
In her impassioned plea, Mufti expressed her deep concern for civilians living in conflict zones. "Children, women, and the elderly are dying and getting displaced on both sides of the border. There is an urgent need for restraint," she said. She questioned how long the people living along the borders would have to endure such hardships, asking, "How long will mothers lose their children?" Her emotional appeal resonated with many, as she broke down while recounting the tragic consequences of the ongoing violence.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the Valley’s chief cleric, joined Mufti in calling for de-escalation. He highlighted the immense suffering faced by the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, stating, "As the threat of war intensifies and the loss of precious lives continues, deep sorrow and anxiety grip our hearts. Unfortunately, whenever tensions rise between India and Pakistan, the brunt is primarily borne by the people of Jammu and Kashmir." Farooq urged both countries to urgently de-escalate, warning that the current trajectory could lead to widespread destruction.
The backdrop of this crisis includes the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, including tourists and a local horseman. This attack prompted India to carry out airstrikes targeting terror hideouts, further escalating tensions. Mufti noted that the ongoing military actions only exacerbate the situation, stating, "If a nuclear conflict erupts, who will be left to claim victory?" She urged the leadership of both nations to reconsider their approach and prioritize the lives of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
In response to the escalating tensions, high-level security meetings are taking place in Delhi. Home Minister Amit Shah is conducting a review meeting on border and airport security with the Border Security Force (BSF) Director General, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Director General, and the Intelligence Bureau Chief. These meetings are part of ongoing efforts to ensure operational unity and preparedness in light of recent security concerns.
On the ground, residents of Mahawa, a village near the Indo-Pak border in the Amritsar sector, expressed their unwavering support for the Indian Army's recent actions against Pakistan's attempts to attack Indian cities. Villagers, who have witnessed previous conflicts, stated they are unafraid and ready to assist the army if needed, highlighting a sense of normalcy in the border village despite the escalating tensions.
In the sports arena, the escalating India-Pakistan tensions have led to the suspension of IPL 2025, ensuring the safety of players, staff, and fans. This decision came after military hostilities raised concerns about security, with matches on hold until further notice from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
As the situation continues to develop, Mehbooba Mufti's heartfelt appeal serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. Her call for restraint and dialogue reflects the urgent need for both nations to prioritize peace and the well-being of their citizens over military actions. With the stakes higher than ever, the hope for a diplomatic resolution hangs in the balance, as innocent lives continue to be affected by the ongoing hostilities.
