Sajad Lone Advocates for Split Between Kashmir and Jammu

Reassessing the Kashmir-Jammu Relationship

In a significant statement on Wednesday, Sajad Gani Lone, president of the Peoples Conference and a J&K legislator, called for a thorough and unwavering reassessment of the relationship between Kashmir and Jammu. Lone is advocating for a separation of the two regions, pushing for a dialogue that challenges the status quo.

National Conference’s Response

The governing National Conference, including prominent figures like president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has strongly rejected Lone’s demands. They argue that such calls are divisive and align with Pakistan’s agenda. Lone counters their arguments, asserting that separation wouldn’t breed animosity between the people of the two regions.

Unity Beyond Geographic Boundaries

Lone emphasized, “Are the people of Maharashtra not our brothers? What about those from Delhi or Gujarat?” He believes the warmth and welcome that visitors from different states receive in Kashmir exemplify enduring brotherhood. “God willing, even after separation, brotherhood will remain,” he stated.

Secularism and Regional Considerations

In response to Farooq Abdullah’s claim that such a division would undermine secular values, Lone remarked, “India has a population of 1.5 billion. We are barely six or seven million.” He questioned the expectation placed on Kashmiris to uphold secularism while facing discrimination nationwide. Lone highlighted the ongoing struggles of Kashmiri students who often face humiliation and violence across the country.

A Disproportionate Burden

Lone argued that Kashmiris have never explicitly agreed to bear the burden of a forced unity. He pointed out the sacrifices made by Kashmiri Muslims in the fight against terrorism, noting that approximately 90% of police martyrs in the region are from this community. He criticized a “relentless campaign of hatred” that he claims is brewing from Jammu.

Rising Tensions Over Regional Discrimination

As discussions intensify around this sensitive topic, accusations of discrimination by the Jammu-centric government persist. Lone’s recent remarks came after calls from the BJP and parts of the high court bar association to relocate the National Law University proposed in Budgam to Jammu. “Maybe, the time has come for an amicable divorce,” Lone stated, indicating that the current dynamics extend beyond mere developmental issues and suggest deeper sociopolitical rifts.

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