Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Indian lawyer and politician, Indian Minister of Home Affairs (d. 2016)

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed: A Journey Through Indian and Kashmiri Politics

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed (12 January 1936 – 7 January 2016) was a towering political figure from the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, whose career spanned over five decades. Known for his astute political acumen and pragmatic approach, Sayeed played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the region and at the national level. His journey from a grassroots activist to the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir twice, and a Union Minister in the Indian government, reflects a deep commitment to public service and the intricate dynamics of Indian federalism.

Early Political Career and Foundations

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed began his extensive political career in the dynamic political environment of Jammu and Kashmir. He initially aligned himself with a wing of the National Conference, a prominent regional party, which was then led by Ghulam Mohammad Sadiq. Sadiq was a significant political personality who later served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Sayeed's association with this faction indicated his early leanings towards a more inclusive and pro-India political stream within the state. This wing subsequently merged into the Indian National Congress, a major national political party, thereby integrating Sayeed into mainstream Indian politics and providing him with a broader platform.

Ascension to National Prominence

In 1987, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed made a significant shift in his political affiliation, moving to the Janata Dal. This move was particularly noteworthy as the Janata Dal represented a strong opposition front against the then-dominant Indian National Congress. His political journey further escalated when he assumed critical roles at the national level. He served as the **Minister of Tourism** in Rajiv Gandhi's cabinet, showcasing his ability to navigate different political dispensations.

However, one of his most impactful and historically significant appointments was as the **Home Minister of India** in V. P. Singh's cabinet, a position he held from 1989 to 1990. This period was marked by intense political challenges and the burgeoning insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir. A defining moment of his tenure occurred in December 1989, when his daughter, Rubaiya Sayeed, was kidnapped by the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF). Her release was secured only after the government agreed to free five arrested militants, a decision that generated considerable debate and controversy, highlighting the complex security landscape of the time.

Founding the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the "Healing Touch"

After his stints at the national level, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed returned his focus to Jammu and Kashmir. In July 1999, he embarked on a new political venture, founding the People's Democratic Party (PDP). The formation of PDP was rooted in a vision to offer a distinct political alternative in Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on a more empathetic and dialogue-centric approach to the region's challenges. The party's core philosophy, often encapsulated by the "Healing Touch" policy, aimed at alleviating the suffering of the people, fostering reconciliation, and promoting peace through dialogue both internally and externally. This policy sought to address the deep-seated grievances and psychological impact of conflict on the populace, emphasizing human dignity and development.

Leadership as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed served two terms as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, each marked by unique political alliances and significant policy initiatives.

• First Term: November 2002 – November 2005
  During his initial tenure, which saw the PDP forming a coalition government with the Indian National Congress, Sayeed implemented the "Healing Touch" policy with earnest. This period is particularly remembered for groundbreaking confidence-building measures, most notably the initiation of the **Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service** in 2005. This historic cross-Line of Control (LoC) bus service reconnected divided families and laid the groundwork for enhanced people-to-people contact and cross-LoC trade, a significant step towards de-escalation and peace-building in the region.
• Second Term: March 2015 – January 2016
  His second term as Chief Minister was brief but historically significant, as it involved a unique coalition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking the first time the BJP was part of a ruling alliance in Jammu and Kashmir. Sayeed's vision for this alliance was to bridge political divides and usher in an era of development and stability for the state. Unfortunately, his term was cut short by his demise in January 2016.

Enduring Legacy and the Future of PDP

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's legacy is defined by his pragmatic politics, his emphasis on dialogue as a means to resolve complex issues, and his deep understanding of the unique socio-political fabric of Jammu and Kashmir. The People's Democratic Party (PDP) continues to be a significant political force in the region, striving to uphold the foundational principles laid down by its founder. Following his passing, the party's leadership was seamlessly transitioned to his daughter, Mehbooba Mufti, who has since continued to lead the PDP, navigating the challenging and evolving political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mufti Mohammad Sayeed

Who was Mufti Mohammad Sayeed?

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed was a prominent Indian politician from Jammu and Kashmir, who served as the Chief Minister of the state twice and held significant ministerial portfolios in the Indian central government, including Union Home Minister.

What political parties was Mufti Mohammad Sayeed associated with?

He began with the National Conference (G. M. Sadiq wing), which merged into the Indian National Congress. He later switched to Janata Dal before founding his own party, the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

What significant roles did Mufti Mohammad Sayeed hold in the Indian government?

Mufti Mohammad Sayeed served as the Minister of Tourism in Rajiv Gandhi's cabinet and, notably, as the Home Minister of India in V. P. Singh's cabinet from 1989 to 1990.

When did Mufti Mohammad Sayeed serve as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir?

He served two terms: from November 2002 to November 2005, and again from March 2015 until his passing in January 2016.

What is the People's Democratic Party (PDP)?

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) is a regional political party in Jammu and Kashmir, founded by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in 1999. Its core philosophy includes the "Healing Touch" policy and advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue through dialogue.

Who leads the PDP now?

Currently, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) is led by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's daughter, Mehbooba Mufti.