Sajad Lone, President of the People’s Conference (PC), unveiled his party’s manifesto today, promising a vigorous campaign for the restoration of Statehood and Article 370, alongside efforts to resolve the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir issue.
In his address, Lone outlined his party’s key commitments, including the repeal of contentious laws such as the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), Public Safety Act (PSA), and the Enemy Agents Ordinance. The PC also pledged to work towards the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits, should they come to power.
Lone emphasized that while a resolution on Article 370 could be passed in the J&K Assembly, the actual restoration of the special status would require action from Parliament. He also mentioned that some aspects of Article 35A could potentially be reinstated at the Assembly level if Statehood is restored, drawing a parallel to similar actions taken by Himachal Pradesh.
“We need to collectively agitate for the restoration of Article 370,” Lone asserted. He argued that the special status has been mischaracterized, suggesting that such federal arrangements are common worldwide and that a renewed focus on Article 370 is essential for achieving a comprehensive federal solution.
Addressing his own political strategy, Lone indicated that he might contest elections from two constituencies, Handwara and Kupwara, in response to pressure from local supporters.
In a rebuttal to BJP National General Secretary Ram Madhav’s recent remarks, Lone accused Madhav of making statements designed to benefit the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). “Madhav is not naive; he knows the BJP’s image among the majority Muslim population here,” Lone said. “His statements are intended to maintain the status quo and serve the interests of the NC and PDP. I would even offer him Rs 1 lakh to continue making such remarks against me daily if it would expose the truth.”
Lone criticized the BJP’s claims and challenged them to take concrete actions if they believe there are issues with the current political landscape.
