Is the National Conference Callously Treating Kashmiris?

Synopsis
In a bold statement, Sajad Gani Lone of the J&K Peoples Conference has accused the National Conference of neglecting Kashmiris and fostering a corrupt system. His pointed remarks highlight the urgent need for accountability and reform in the region, raising critical questions about governance and the future of Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
- Sajad Gani Lone criticizes the National Conference for neglecting Kashmiris.
- Allegations of rampant corruption and inefficiency are highlighted.
- Lone emphasizes the need for genuine governance reforms.
- Concerns about the concentration of power in the Chief Minister's office are raised.
- The economic downturn in Kashmir requires urgent attention.
Srinagar, June 4 (NationPress) J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone sharply criticized the National Conference and its current administration on Wednesday, alleging that they are intentionally targeting Kashmiris and perpetuating a system filled with deceit, inaction, and blatant corruption.
During a press conference, Lone stated that the National Conference lacks the influence to benefit anyone except the ordinary Kashmiri.
“They are targeting the very individuals who supported them. Those who did not vote for them are treated with indifference. This behavior is precisely what we anticipated from them,” Lone remarked.
He further pointed to the alleged widespread corruption and ineffectiveness of the current administration.
“We will start gathering evidence. To date, they have accomplished nothing—only deceit after deceit. Where is the government? What have they provided to the citizens?” he questioned.
Criticizing the routine official review meetings, he noted, “These meetings have been ongoing for ages—merely for sipping tea and enjoying kebabs. During our tenure, these review meetings were meaningless as well. Do you think countries like Germany, Japan, the UK, or the US became developed nations through review meetings? Building a nation requires hard work, day and night.”
He also expressed alarm over the excessive concentration of power in the Chief Minister’s office.
“The Chief Minister is accountable for 28 to 30 departments alone. Is he even human? If ministers cannot be appointed due to fear or indecisiveness, what is the purpose of holding power?”
He condemned the system still being managed by commissioner-secretaries as it was decades ago, questioning, “Why did people even vote if no significant changes were intended, and ministers were merely meant to be occupied with transfers?”
Lone also voiced concerns regarding the ongoing termination of government employees, labeling it a harmful and repetitive approach.
“This has been a consistent issue for 30 years across all administrations. It fosters unrest. The targeting of Kashmiris must cease. Until Kashmiris experience peace, stability in South Asia will remain an elusive dream.”
Addressing the economic downturn, he remarked, “Economic activity in Kashmir has stalled. There is an urgent need to restore market confidence and rejuvenate the economy.”