Srinagar, March 6 (KNS): People’s Conference leader Sajad Lone questioned the National Conference’s (NC) shift in stance as it now acknowledges that all major decisions regarding J&K—statehood, special status, and laws—will ultimately be made in New Delhi.
“If everything has to happen in New Delhi, then what did they seek votes for?”, he asked Government.
Lone highlighted the need for a strong resolution to push for modifying and repealing the post-August 5, 2019 laws, particularly those related to land ownership.
He stressed the importance of reasonable restrictions and regional autonomy, adding that efforts must be made to secure the release of prisoners languishing in jails and repeal the Public Safety Act. “You have written ‘repeal’ in your own document on page 11,” he pointed out, emphasizing the need for concrete steps rather than just statements.
He also spoke about the dignified return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits, calling for ease in job verification processes and passport clearances. “We need to end unjust terminations and unnecessary harassment on highways,” he said, highlighting the daily struggles faced by the people.
Regarding employment, Lone reminded the Assembly of its promises: “You have promised to provide one lakh jobs to the youth. Within three months of forming the government, you said you would pass the J&K Youth Employment Generation Act. You also said you will fill vacancies within 180 days.” He questioned whether these commitments would be honored or forgotten.
Referring to the events of August 5, 2019, Lone described them as a war on the people of Kashmir. “It felt as if they were announcing a war against us. Everyone was arrested, phones were cut off, and it was as if a huge war was happening. We were all put in jail—some had better jails, some worse—but we were all prisoners,” he said, emphasizing the collective suffering.
However, his sharpest remark was directed at the messaging coming from NC, which he believes lacks aspirations for the people. “The whole Parliament has to decide. Statehood has to come from there. Article 370, everything will happen from there. But what are we? What is the message to the people of J&K? To India? That we are ready to work on old salaries and compromises?”
