Srinagar, July 28: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday issued a public apology over her controversial remarks made at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, expressing regret if her words had hurt the sentiments of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. "If my words have hurt the sentiments of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, I sincerely apologise. The people here consider me their own, and if they have been pained because of my remarks, I express my heartfelt regret," she said. The controversy stems from remarks Mehbooba made while participating in a protest at Jantar Mantar against the alleged use of police force on students in Delhi. The controversy also sparked a wider debate, prompting Mehbooba to issue a clarification and an apology to the people of J&K.