Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has expressed concerns over the use of government advertisements as a means to suppress press freedom in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Mehbooba Mufti, in a post on the social media platform X, pointed out that the Information Department has been withholding advertisements from most local news outlets, even three months after the new government, led by Omar Abdullah, took office. She also noted delays in renewing press accreditations for senior journalists, which she argues are tightening the media environment.

Mehbooba Mufti called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to address these issues to ensure the media can operate freely and fairly. The strategy of using advertisements to influence media in the region has been criticized by rights groups, with accusations that the government financially pressures newspapers critical of its policies. This approach reportedly intensified after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, leading to several local newspapers losing advertisement revenue for not aligning with government narratives.

Analysts suggest that the policy aims to weaken dissenting voices financially and promote pro-government narratives through selective ad distribution. Critics claim that this has forced media outlets into difficult positions, with some shutting down or changing their editorial stance to secure government support.

In December, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led a meeting to discuss revising the advertisement policy for media houses. However, Mehbooba Mufti’s remarks highlight ongoing challenges and suggest that despite promises of fairness, significant control remains with Delhi-appointed Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, limiting the elected government’s power.