J&K People’s Conference Leader Sajad Gani Lone Detained at Home on Father’s Death Anniversary

Sajad Gani Lone, the president of the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference, has reportedly been placed under house arrest on the anniversary of his father’s death, according to party sources. Abdul Gani Lone, a prominent political figure, was assassinated by militants on May 21, 2002, marking a significant event in the region’s turbulent history.

The party issued a statement on social media, claiming that multiple senior leaders and party activists were also prevented from attending the memorial at Shaheed Mazaar in Srinagar, where Abdul Gani Lone is buried. In their statement, they expressed deep disappointment, describing the actions taken by authorities as “unfortunate, undemocratic, and deeply insensitive.” They emphasized that such restrictions not only hurt public sentiment but also undermine the very essence of democratic values.

The Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference highlighted the importance of commemorating leaders who have sacrificed for their political beliefs, asserting that stifling such remembrance is a disservice to the legacy of those who fought for the rights of the people. The statement included a condemnation of the house arrest of their president, Sajad Lone, who also serves as an MLA for Handwara.

This incident comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, where political activities are often closely monitored by security forces. The police have not yet responded to the allegations made by the People’s Conference, leaving room for speculation about the intentions behind this apparent curtailment of political expression.

Abdul Gani Lone was a notable figure in the Kashmiri political landscape, revered for his vision and leadership during tumultuous times. His death was a significant loss for the political community in the region, as he was actively involved in advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution to the issues plaguing Jammu and Kashmir. His assassination occurred during a rally meant to honor another slain leader, Mirwaiz Moulvi Mohammad Farooq, who had also fallen victim to violence twelve years earlier.

Source: scroll.in