Srinagar, May 22 (KNS): PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has voiced serious concern over the worsening condition of print journalism in Kashmir. She urged the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister to intervene and restore government advertisements, which are a vital source of income for local newspapers.

In a post on X , the former Chief Minister said, “Suspension of government advertisements vital for both small and leading publications has thrown print journalism into complete disarray across the Valley. It’s only further deepened the crisis in the local media ecosystem, depriving hundreds of families who rely on it for their livelihood. Request @CM_JnK to take cognisance of this issue.”

Mehbooba’s appeal comes at a time when Kashmir’s print media is already struggling, especially after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe halt in government advertisements, once the main financial support for newspapers, has forced many publications to cut staff, reduce pages, or shut down.

Journalists and press associations say the withdrawal of ads seems aimed at silencing critical voices. The local media, once rich and diverse, is now battling to survive. Many fear that without fair and transparent support, independent journalism in Kashmir could collapse.

Rising printing costs and limited resources have made it difficult for newspapers to continue. Mehbooba Mufti’s call adds to growing appeals from media workers and associations, asking the government to urgently address the issue and safeguard the livelihoods of hundreds of people dependent on the local press.(KNS)