PDP President Mehbooba calls for Muharram processions, Youths’ release in IIOJK

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 17th Jun, 2026) President Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, has called on authorities in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) to allow major Muharram processions and release of youths detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA), saying the measures would help address public concerns ahead of the holy month.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Mehbooba Mufti said in a statement that religious processions were an integral part of Kashmir’s cultural and spiritual heritage and must be facilitated with due respect for the sentiments and rights of the people.

“Muharram is a time of reflection, sacrifice and remembrance. The values embodied by Imam Hussain (AS) continue to inspire people to stand for justice, compassion and human dignity,” she said, urging the administration to ensure all necessary arrangements for mourners and devotees.

She said Muharram carries profound religious and emotional significance for the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the administration must ensure its observance in a peaceful and dignified manner.

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Expressing concern over the detention of several youths under the PSA for participating in protests over US-Israeli attacks on Iran earlier this year and their incarceration in jails outside IIOJK, Mehbooba termed the move “deeply troubling”, saying it risks further alienating the youth”.

“The use of harsh laws against young people is insensitive and counterproductive. At a time that calls for compassion and understanding, the authorities should engage with people, address their concerns and healing wounds rather than adding to their pain by resorting to punitive measures,” she said.

She urged the IIOJK administration to immediately review all such cases, release those detained and refrain from further coercive measures.