MLA Speaks: Will transform Wagoora-Kreeri into a model constituency in J&K: Adv Lone

Srinagar, Oct 30: Newly elected Congress MLA Advocate Irfan Hafiz Lone has pledged to transform his constituency into a model region in Jammu and Kashmir, with a strong focus on development and addressing local issues.
In an interview with Rising Kashmir, Advocate Lone expressed his determination to fulfill the aspirations of the people over the next five years. “As a DDC member, I worked hard on the ground, and the people have appreciated that effort. With this new mandate, I will continue to fulfill their aspirations,” he stated.
Expressing gratitude to the voters for their trust, Lone emphasized his commitment to fighting for their rights peacefully. “Resolving grievances and addressing critical issues will be my top priority,” he added.
Advocate Lone reiterated his commitment to the Congress party’s promise of providing free electricity to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “The current sky-high electricity rates need to be reviewed, and people deserve relief and justice.”
He also addressed concerns regarding the horticulture sector, particularly for local fruit growers. “My focus is on providing quality fertilizers to boost the apple economy in the region. We will also seek government intervention to stop the duty-free import of apples from South Asian countries, which is harming our growers. I am committed to raising this issue in the Assembly,” he said.
Reflecting on the absence of electoral participation over the past decade, Advocate Lone described it as a “brazen violation” and stressed the need to restore the democratic process. “We are hopeful that our government will work towards the development and progress of the region. We expect this representation to restore political and democratic rights, addressing the issues that have been neglected,” he stated.
When asked about the Congress party’s absence from the list of Cabinet Ministers, Lone downplayed its significance, asserting, “It is not necessary for every candidate to be in the Cabinet. We are part of the government, and our focus is on working on the ground for the people. This alliance has a noble and larger objective to restore statehood, land rights, and employment for the local population.”
Advocate Lone emphasized the importance of addressing critical areas such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and employment generation. “Ensuring the growth of this constituency is our top priority,” he concluded.
In the recent assembly elections, Advocate Irfan Hafiz Lone defeated two-time MLA Syed Basharat Bukhari of the People’s Democratic Party, securing 17,002 votes while Bukhari trailed by 7,751 votes, marking a significant victory for the Congress candidate.