Srinagar, February 1, 2026 : Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday urged the Jammu and Kashmir Government to earmark a separate budgetary provision for the development of Old Srinagar city (Shahr-e-Khaas), citing its unique socio-economic challenges.
With the Budget Session of the J&K Legislative Assembly set to begin on Monday with the address of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah scheduled to present the annual budget on February 6, Mehbooba said Shahr-e-Khaas requires focused attention and exclusive funding.
Addressing a gathering in Babademb–Khanyar, Mehbooba said, “Shahr-e-Khaas has its own problems and there should be a separate budget provision exclusively meant for its development.”
The former Chief Minister pointed out that a majority of residents in the area fall under the general category and do not benefit from reservations in jobs or institutions. She said livelihoods in the old city largely depend on handicrafts, tourism, roadside vending and transport, sectors that are currently under stress.
“The handicrafts sector is under attack due to the influx of machine-made products, leading to shrinking incomes for traditional artisans,” she said, adding that many people associated with cabs and small businesses are struggling to sustain themselves.
Mehbooba assured locals that PDP would continue to raise their concerns. “When we have more power, we will definitely do more for this area. Shahr-e-Khaas was very dear to PDP founder Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Sahib,” she said.
She also praised the participation of young boys and girls during PDP’s ‘Kath Baat’ (Dialogue) programme, saying Gen Z has shown awareness on a wide range of issues.
Raising concerns over mental health and drug abuse, Mehbooba appealed to parents to remain vigilant. “If children show signs of depression, don’t ignore it. Seek medical help before they fall prey to drugs,” she said.
She added that the interaction was held away from media glare to allow people to speak freely, alleging that fear of repercussions discourages open expression. “Unfortunately, there are attempts to put curbs even on free expression,” she said.
