Peoples Conference President Alleges Jammu Hindering Development in Kashmir

Peoples Conference president, Sajad Lone, has accused Jammu of obstructing developmental initiatives in Kashmir, suggesting that it may be time for an “amicable divorce” between the two regions of the Union Territory.

Lone’s remarks were in response to calls for relocating the recently announced National Law University from Budgam district to Jammu, as well as demands for the separation of Jammu from Kashmir.

In a statement, Lone urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to fulfill his promise of establishing the Law University in Budgam and questioned Jammu’s opposition to developmental projects in Kashmir.

Highlighting the importance of institutional integrity, Lone emphasized the need to honor commitments and keep the university in Budgam.

Addressing the resistance from some factions in Jammu towards projects focused on Kashmir, Lone criticized the “obsession” with denying Kashmir initiatives, contrasting it with Jammu’s possession of an IIM.

Suggesting a reevaluation of the administrative setup between the two regions, Lone proposed the idea of an “amicable divorce” due to Jammu’s role as a hindrance to Kashmir’s progress.

Accusing Jammu-based voices of selective courage, Lone criticized their silence on issues affecting them while opposing Kashmir-centric projects.

Expressing the need for Kashmir’s integration with India to be free from negative influences, Lone emphasized the importance of unbiased regional relations.

Commenting on the shifting sentiment in Kashmir, Lone stated that the desire for separation may be growing, requiring bold leadership to address the situation.

Recent statements by BJP MLA Sham Lal Sharma advocating for Jammu’s separation were disavowed by the party’s state president, distancing the BJP from such claims.