“I stepped into politics to carry forward my mother’s vision and my grandfather’s legacy for Jammu & Kashmir.” — Iltija Mufti
Introduction
Iltija Mufti is a rising political figure in Jammu & Kashmir, representing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Known for her outspoken views on democracy, human rights, and Kashmiri identity, she has become one of the most prominent young voices in the region. Her political journey is deeply tied to her family’s legacy: her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, was the first woman Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, and her grandfather, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, twice served as Chief Minister and founded the PDP.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1987 | Born in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir |
| 2019 | Rose to prominence during her mother’s detention after Article 370 abrogation |
| 2020–2022 | Served as PDP spokesperson, voicing concerns on democracy and rights |
| 2024 | Contested Lok Sabha elections from Bijbehara (Srigufwara-Bijbehara constituency) |
| 2025 | Continues political career as PDP leader |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Iltija Mehbooba Mufti |
| Birthdate | 1987 |
| Birthplace | Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| Age | 38 years (as of 2025) |
| Ethnicity | Kashmiri Muslim |
| Education | B.A. in Political Science (Delhi); M.A. in International Relations (UK) |
| Profession | Politician, PDP spokesperson |
| Parents | Mehbooba Mufti (mother), Javed Iqbal Shah (father) |
| Grandfather | Mufti Mohammad Sayeed (former CM, PDP founder) |
| Political Party | Jammu & Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life, Parents & Siblings
Iltija was born in Srinagar in 1987. Her mother, Mehbooba Mufti, is a prominent politician and former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, while her father, Javed Iqbal Shah, is a businessman. Her grandfather, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, was a towering figure in Indian politics and the founder of the PDP. Growing up in a politically active family, Iltija was exposed to governance and public service from an early age.
Education
Iltija studied Political Science in Delhi before pursuing a Master’s in International Relations in the UK. She also worked as a Senior Administrative Officer at the Indian High Commission in London and at the Australia India Institute, gaining international exposure before returning to Kashmir.

Career Background
Entry into Politics
Iltija stepped into the spotlight in 2019, when her mother was detained after the abrogation of Article 370. She became the PDP’s voice, speaking to national and international media about the political situation in Kashmir.
PDP Spokesperson
She later served as a spokesperson for the PDP, articulating the party’s stance on democracy, autonomy, and human rights in Jammu & Kashmir.
Electoral Politics
In 2024, Iltija contested the Lok Sabha elections from Bijbehara (Srigufwara-Bijbehara constituency), marking her formal entry into electoral politics.
Career Colleagues
- Mehbooba Mufti (mother, PDP president)
- Mufti Mohammad Sayeed (grandfather, PDP founder)
- PDP leaders and cadres
Challenges & Achievements
Achievements:
- Became PDP’s prominent spokesperson during a critical political crisis (2019)
- Represented PDP in national and international forums
- Entered electoral politics in 2024
Challenges:
- Navigating politics in a region marked by conflict and uncertainty
- Facing criticism and scrutiny as part of a political dynasty
Personal Life
Iltija has kept her personal life private, focusing on her political career and public service.
Legacy
Iltija Mufti’s legacy is still unfolding. As the third generation of the Mufti political family, she represents continuity and change in Jammu & Kashmir politics. Her outspoken nature and international exposure position her as a potential future leader in the region.









