Shawls won’t bring change: Sajad slams NC for betraying J&K’s rights

Handwara, Nov 13: Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference (JKPC) Chief and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, launched a scathing attack on the National Conference (NC) and its leadership on Saturday, accusing them of playing political games that undermine the region’s aspirations for justice.
Speaking at a press conference in Handwara, Lone sharply criticized the NC for failing to respect the Assembly’s role and the democratic institution itself. He argued that any hopes of regaining respect from New Delhi would remain distant as long as the NC continued to use its limited powers to target political opponents. “When the NC tries to weaponize its position to settle scores with opponents, how can they expect New Delhi to relinquish dual control over Jammu and Kashmir?” Lone asked.
Lone further highlighted the need for a unified political front in Jammu and Kashmir, advocating for collaboration among all political forces to create the momentum necessary to restore the region’s rights and dignity. “We need a collective movement to demand change not isolated voices or fractured approaches,” he said, adding that fragmented leadership would only delay the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status.
The JKPC chief also aimed at NC Vice President Omar Abdullah, criticizing his recent visits to New Delhi. “Omar Abdullah has put a shawl on every BJP leader’s shoulder, including those who have been vocal against the Muslim community,” Lone remarked, dismissing such gestures as ineffective. He pointed out that such symbolic acts would not bring about real change or address the core issue the restoration of Article 370 and 35A, which were unilaterally revoked by the BJP-led central government in 2019.
Lone contrasted the NC’s “ambiguous” approach with the clear, unambiguous stance taken by the People’s Conference and other parties like the PDP and Awami Itehad Party, which collectively condemned the August 5, 2019, decision and demanded the reinstatement of Article 370. He also criticized the NC’s recent resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, which he described as a “toothless” document that failed to explicitly reject the 2019 constitutional changes.
“The resolution passed by NC was vague and did not take a strong stand on Article 370 or 35A,” Lone said. “They have been fooling the people of Jammu and Kashmir for decades, and they continue to do so.” He also accused both NC and the BJP of colluding for political gain, calling their relationship a “fixed match.”
While admitting that his party had initially supported the resolution due to time constraints, Lone reaffirmed his party’s commitment to a resolute stance on the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. He concluded by urging the people of Jammu and Kashmir to see through the political games and unite for a common cause the full restoration of their rights.