Mehbooba accuses Centre of breaking promises to Kashmir on Accession Day

Mehbooba Mufti used the occasion of Accession Day on October 26 to voice her criticism of the central government's handling of Jammu and Kashmir affairs. The former Chief Minister contended that assurances made to the region have gone unfulfilled, characterising the situation as a breach of trust between New Delhi and Kashmir.

Accession Day, which commemorates Maharaja Hari Singh's signing of the Instrument of Accession in 1947, was designated as an official holiday in Jammu and Kashmir during central rule in 2020. The move followed the contentious abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which had granted the region special constitutional status and a degree of autonomy.

The timing of Mehbooba's remarks underscores ongoing tensions between regional political leadership and the central administration over Kashmir's governance and the implementation of policies since the constitutional changes. Her statements reflect persistent concerns among sections of Kashmir's political establishment regarding the trajectory of the region's development and the fulfilment of commitments made during and after the transition period.

The accession remains a significant date in Kashmiri political consciousness, serving as a focal point for discussions about the region's constitutional status and political future. Mehbooba's comments indicate that questions about New Delhi's pledges and their delivery continue to shape the political discourse in the valley.