‘Uphold Constitutional Values Amid Rising Majoritarianism‘
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD)Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP president, Mehbooba Mufti has written to her counterparts in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Karnataka—M.K. Stalin, Mamata Banerjee, and Siddaramaiah respectively—urging them to continue championing the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution in the face of an increasingly majoritarian political climate.
In her statement, Mufti voiced profound concern over the growing tide of majoritarianism that has gripped the country over the past decade, warning that it poses a serious threat to India’s essence of plurality, diversity, and secularism.
“While the majority of citizens continue to reject this divisive agenda, those promoting hatred and exclusion now hold positions of power,” she wrote. “They are systematically targeting our Constitution, democratic institutions, and the secular fabric of the nation. Minorities, particularly Muslims, have borne the brunt of these actions—the latest example being the arbitrary enforcement of new Waqf laws, which undermine our religious freedoms.”
Mufti also highlighted that these developments are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of democratic backsliding, citing the abrogation of Article 370 and the dismemberment of Jammu & Kashmir as key examples.
In her letters, she praised the three Chief Ministers for their steadfast and principled resistance:
“In these dark and difficult times, your clarity, courage, and commitment to justice have been a rare beacon of h2ope. Alongside a handful of principled voices, you have upheld the inclusive and democratic idea of India. I write to convey my deepest respect and the gratitude of countless people who feel voiceless and marginalised today. With your continued leadership, I believe we can reclaim our constitutional values and safeguard our shared future.”
Mufti’s outreach seeks to foster solidarity among like-minded leaders determined to protect India’s democratic ethos and ensure that the rights of all citizens are upheld(DD)