Jammu, Feb 04: In a subtle snub to the National Conference, Congress MLA Irfan Hafeez Lone on Wednesday said that the demand for statehood should have been reiterated in the Lieutenant Governor’s address.
Speaking on the Motion of Thanks on the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, Irfan Hafeez Lone-who is also a petitioner in the statehood case-said that the demand for statehood should have been included in the LG’s speech.
“In the last LG’s address, it was said that ‘My Government recognises the emotional and political significance of statehood for the people and is actively engaging with all stakeholders to facilitate this process in a manner that ensures peace, stability and progress.’ The Supreme Court also reflected submissions about the cabinet resolution on statehood. In its order, the Court noted: ‘It is also submitted that the cabinet of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution on 18.10.2024, requesting the Union of India to take up the matter of restoration of statehood,’” Lone said.
He added that the Solicitor General had submitted before the Supreme Court that the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and the Government of India are in consultation over the issue of statehood.
“I want to say that the demand for restoration of statehood should have been mentioned in this LG’s Address,” he asserted.
Lone further said that the way Kashmiris are being harassed across the country is a matter of serious concern.
“This is a matter of serious concern,” he reiterated.
He stressed that all citizens are equal before the law and argued that MLA Mehraj Malik’s detention amounted to “imprisoning the Assembly and undermining it.”
“If he has spoken rudely, it does not warrant action under the Public Safety Act,” Lone added—(KNO)
