Srinagar, Jan 16: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Friday dismissed People’s Conference chairman Sajad Lone’s remarks suggesting a “divorce” between Jammu and Kashmir, terming these as “childish talk.”
Speaking to reporters in Jammu, the Deputy CM said, “There is no question of separating Jammu and Kashmir. The region is an inseparable entity shaped by generations of leaders and sacrifices.”
“I don’t understand why there is talk of divorce. This Jammu and Kashmir was created by our elders—whether they were his elders or ours. This is the Jammu and Kashmir of Maharaja Gulab Singh, Maharaja Hari Singh and Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah,” he said.
The Deputy CM said Jammu and Kashmir has emerged stronger after facing difficult times, including the 1947 war and external aggression. “By making such childish statements, Jammu and Kashmir will not benefit,” he added.
Reacting to demands for a separate Jammu state, he said Jammu has historically raised such issues, but experience shows that division does not work. Referring to the 2019 reorganisation and Ladakh’s conversion into a Union Territory, he said people there are protesting even today. “Look at what is happening in Ladakh and Kargil. The experience in front of us shows that this model cannot work,” he said.
Questioning the economic viability of a separate Jammu state, the Deputy CM asked how its expenses would be met and what revenue would be generated. “Even electricity bills become an issue here. If Jammu is separated, how will expenses be managed and from where will revenue come?” he said.
Sharma said demands for separate institutions should be addressed through dialogue rather than division, citing the bifurcation of Sher-e-Kashmir Agricultural University in 1995–96. “If we want institutions, we can talk about that. But separating Jammu and Kashmir will finish our civilisation and culture,” he said.
Highlighting economic interdependence, the Deputy CM said even a temporary closure of movement had severely impacted Jammu’s economy. He said after the reopening of routes following a decision by the Omar Abdullah-led government, economic activity has revived across Jammu. “Businesses, rentals, transport, petrol pumps, dairy and sweet shops all stand benefited. This shows how interconnected our economy is,” he said.
The Deputy CM said the real issues facing Jammu and Kashmir relate to development, employment and the aspirations of the youth. “We must ask what the youth and future generations of Jammu and Kashmir want. A few people giving statements for their day-to-day politics will not work,” he added—(KNO)
