Mehbooba Mufti, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and president of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has made a public appeal to the Government of India seeking urgent medical assistance for Shabir Ahmad Shah, a separatist leader currently lodged in jail. Citing humanitarian reasons and deteriorating health conditions, Mufti urged the Centre to ensure that Shah receives adequate medical care.
In a statement issued on social media, Mufti highlighted that the health of Shabir Ahmad Shah has reportedly worsened and that he needs timely and specialized medical attention. She emphasized that irrespective of political ideologies or legal cases, access to proper healthcare is a fundamental right, even for those in custody.
Shah, a senior leader associated with the separatist group Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (JKDFP), was arrested under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in connection with alleged terror funding cases. He has been in custody for several years, and his bail petitions have been rejected multiple times due to the nature of the charges against him.
Mufti’s Humanitarian Appeal
Mehbooba Mufti stated that denying medical care to any individual in custody could set a dangerous precedent. “We must rise above political differences and ensure that human dignity is preserved. Prisoners are entitled to medical treatment under the Constitution and international legal norms,” she said.
She also urged the Ministry of Home Affairs, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and prison authorities to act promptly, warning that any negligence could endanger Shah’s life. Mufti added that such actions would reflect poorly on India’s commitment to democratic values and human rights.
Legal and Human Rights Angle
According to Indian law and guidelines laid out by the Supreme Court, undertrial and convicted prisoners are entitled to basic medical facilities, including hospitalization in case of serious health concerns. Human rights organisations have also raised similar concerns in recent years about prison healthcare and overcrowding in India.
Several rights groups and political observers have echoed Mufti’s concerns, saying that the health and welfare of prisoners must
