A fresh cross-border peace initiative has brought together 117 prominent voices from India and Pakistan, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to resume dialogue and work towards restoring normal bilateral relations. The appeal, issued by the Centre for Peace and Progress, argues that sustained engagement remains the only viable path to addressing longstanding differences between the two neighbours. The signatories say continued dialogue is essential for regional stability, economic cooperation and securing a better future for younger generations on both sides of the border. The joint statement has been endorsed by several well-known political leaders, diplomats, academics and public figures from both countries. Among the Indian signatories are Farooq Abdullah, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mehbooba Mufti, while former Pakistani Foreign Minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri is among the prominent voices supporting the initiative. WATCH

PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti has issued a stark warning to the Indian government, drawing parallels between the current crisis in Bangladesh and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. In her statement, Mufti emphasized that the issues faced by the youth in India, particularly in J&K, should serve as a wake-up call for the Centre. She criticized the government's handling of inflation, unemployment, and youth grievances, warning that authoritarian policies and neglect can lead to significant unrest. Watch as Mehbooba Mufti highlights the urgent need for change and the potential dangers of ignoring the youth's struggles.