Sajad Lone Advocates for Administrative Separation of Jammu and Kashmir
Peoples Conference president Sajad Lone has made a bold statement. He calls for an "amicable divorce" between the Jammu and Kashmir divisions. This marks the first time a political leader from the Kashmir Valley openly demands separation.
Lone's Press Statement Highlights Growing Tensions
In an official press release, Lone declared the time has come to reconsider the administrative arrangement. He emphasized that Jammu has become a "proverbial stick to beat the Kashmiri with." Lone believes the people of Kashmir cannot tolerate the current situation any longer.
He stated, "Maybe time has come for an amicable divorce. It is not only about developmental matters." Lone expressed confidence that the desire for separation is much higher in Kashmir than ever before. He urged leadership to call a spade a spade.
Accusations Against Jammu-Based Leadership
Lone questioned Jammu's opposition to developmental initiatives in Kashmir. He accused Jammu-based leaders of "selective courage." According to Lone, these leaders remained silent when the central government took away resources and stopped the Darbar move.
"They demonstrate valour only against their own Kashmir region," he said. Lone argued that Kashmir's integration with India cannot happen through intermediaries who continuously malign the region.
Context of Separate Jammu State Demands
Lone's statement follows recent controversy. Last week, BJP leader and legislator Sham Lal Sharma demanded a separate state for Jammu. The BJP has distanced itself from Sharma's remarks. However, his demand reignited calls for Jammu's separation.
Lone addressed this issue directly. He said, "If Kashmir is to integrate with the rest of the country, it will have to be done without the thrusted service of touts." He criticized the narrative that only one region in Jammu and Kashmir supports the country while the other is labeled a terrorist region.
Call to Honor Promises on National Law University
Lone also urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to fulfill his promise. He asked Abdullah to establish the National Law University at Budgam. Lone stressed the sanctity of the Chief Minister's institution demands keeping such promises.
He commented on Jammu's attitude, saying, "I hope Jammu prospers. But this obsession of having everything and anything that Kashmir wants is more of an issue of lunacy. They have an IIM. What is wrong if a Law University comes to Kashmir."
Implications for Regional Politics
Sajad Lone's call for separation signals a significant shift in Kashmiri politics. It reflects deep-seated frustrations over developmental disparities and political representation. The statement may influence ongoing debates about Jammu and Kashmir's administrative future.
Observers note that Lone's move could galvanize support in Kashmir. It also risks escalating tensions with Jammu-based groups. The central government's response to these demands will be closely watched.
This development underscores the complex dynamics within Jammu and Kashmir. It highlights the challenges of balancing regional aspirations with national integration. The call for an "amicable divorce" adds a new dimension to the political discourse in the region.
