PDP Leader Iltija Mufti Faces Legal Action for Sharing Video of Syed Ali Geelani on Urdu Language

Srinagar: Iltija Mufti, a prominent leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, has come under scrutiny after sharing a video featuring the late separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani. The video discussed the significance of the Urdu language, a topic that has sparked controversy given Geelani’s separatist views.

The legal action against Mufti was initiated by the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday, following her post on social media. In the video, Geelani emphasizes the importance of Urdu, claiming that a major portion of Islamic literature across India, Pakistan, and Jammu and Kashmir has been preserved in this language. He further alleged that there are ongoing efforts to diminish this linguistic heritage, purportedly orchestrated by forces imposed on the populace.

Despite her father’s legacy and her own political inclinations, Iltija Mufti stated, “While I may not concur with Geelani’s ideology, I resonate with his views in the video.” This sentiment underscores the complex dynamics within the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, where language, culture, and identity play crucial roles.

Authorities have charged Mufti under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with offenses that may threaten the sovereignty of India, incite enmity, or disrupt public order. A police officer, requesting anonymity, remarked, “Preliminary inquiry indicates that the circulation of such content is a deliberate attempt to propagate a separatist and secessionist narrative through digital platforms.” The officer also highlighted concerns that sharing such material could incite public discontent and undermine national integration.

This incident has reignited discussions about freedom of expression and the boundaries of political discourse in India, particularly in the sensitive context of Jammu and Kashmir. As the region continues to navigate its complex identity and political challenges, the implications of Mufti’s social media activity could have broader ramifications for political leaders and their engagement with historical narratives.

Source: scroll.in