Srinagar People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone on Thursday urged the Jammu and Kashmir government to convene an emergency session of the Legislative Assembly to pass a resolution restoring the region’s statehood.
“Trust me, this is sincere advice: call an emergency session within the next two days and let us pass a resolution,” Lone said in a statement.
Highlighting ongoing Supreme Court proceedings on the statehood plea, the Handwara MLA emphasized the need for a united front on the issue.
Addressing the Chief Minister, Lone added, “You have dealt with the BJP before, as have I. One piece of unsolicited advice: in negotiations, focus not on what they say, but on what they don’t say. Also, step down from your high horse—stop targeting the opposition, halt punitive transfers, and rein in ministers. Make statehood a common priority first.”
Lone criticized the government for bypassing the Assembly, saying the Chief Minister should have sought Assembly approval for the resolution instead of passing it through the cabinet. “The Assembly, not the cabinet, is the proper forum. Had you done this, the resolution could have already been submitted to the Supreme Court,” he said.
The former minister also warned against petitions filed by individuals without representative authority on constitutional matters. “It’s concerning that anyone can approach the Supreme Court on such a critical issue. Who is representing us? Is the lawyer competent and honest? How can the Court make a decision without consulting the elected government or the Assembly?” he questioned.
