Mehbooba Mufti’s signed op-ed describes a hurried visit to Iran for funeral ceremonies and presents Iran as a society that remains organised, dignified, and socially active despite sanctions and war-related pressure. The note is useful for UPSC because it connects West Asia, cultural history, women’s public participation, and the politics of perception.
What happened
Mehbooba Mufti says she travelled to Tehran on short notice for funeral ceremonies associated with Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. She describes the event as well organised and notes the presence of diplomats and international figures.
She also says she was the only female political leader invited from India. The note presents that detail as evidence of inclusiveness and of the public political visibility of women in Iran.
Background and earlier position
The note argues against Western media stereotypes about Iran. Mehbooba Mufti says she expected fear and wartime paralysis but instead found calm public behaviour, hospitality, and functioning public spaces.
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