Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 17: Senior BJP leader and former Minister, Bali Bhagat today vehemently criticized PDP chief, Mehbooba Mufti for her recent remarks opposing the revival of the Tulbul Navigation Project, accusing her of prioritizing Pakistan’s interests over the development and security of Jammu and Kashmir as well as India’s national sovereignty.
“Mehbooba Mufti’s undue concern for Pakistan’s water security rather than India’s rightful claim to its own resources reveals a disturbing alignment that cannot be ignored. Her criticism of the Tulbul Navigation Project, which is vital for Jammu and Kashmir’s economic progress and energy security, clearly shows where her loyalties lie,” said Bali Bhagat in a press statement issued here, today.
The senior leader highlighted that the Tulbul Navigation Project is crucial for enabling navigation on the Jhelum river and enhancing downstream hydroelectric power generation, especially in Winter months, which directly benefits the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “This project was initiated decades ago to unlock the region’s potential, but was stalled due to pressure from Pakistan under the flawed Indus Water Treaty. Now, with the treaty temporarily suspended, it is only natural for India to reclaim its rightful developmental projects.”
Bali Bhagat condemned Mehbooba Mufti’s statement that ‘weaponizing water is inhumane’ as an attempt to internationalize a bilateral issue that Pakistan has long used as a tool to threaten India’s sovereignty. “Pakistan has consistently supported radical Islamic terrorism and undermined peace in our region. To question India’s rightful use of its natural resources while ignoring Pakistan’s hostile actions is not just irresponsible but dangerously unpatriotic.”
The former Minister asked Mehbooba Mufti to stop appeasing elements across the border and instead focus on championing the progress and welfare of Jammu and Kashmir’s people. “Our priority must be India’s unity, security, and development – not the interests of a hostile neighbor.”1
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