Delay of Statehood is a Sin Against the People of J&K: Sajad Lone

Srinagar, Oct 25: Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone on Friday stated that any delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is “a sin against the people.” In a lengthy post on X, Lone criticized the union government for prolonging the decision, emphasizing that statehood is a right, not a favor.

“Irrespective of political differences, the union government needs to expedite some issues,” he wrote. “Statehood is our right, not charity. Why should they delay it? Why did they take it away in the first place?”

Lone also criticized the Supreme Court for leaving the question of the legality of J&K’s relegation to a Union Territory unanswered. “The court did not endorse this relegation, and we are still without a state,” he remarked, adding that this ambiguity leaves a gap in recognizing J&K’s status.

Additionally, Lone argued that the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir should participate in all security-related meetings. He stressed that local inputs are indispensable for effective strategizing, and excluding the CM undermines the electoral process.

Lone also directed criticism at Omar Abdullah, suggesting that Abdullah’s cooperation with the BJP diminishes his credibility, stating, “There is a difference between fulfilling constitutional duties and cheerleading.”