"Sajad Lone Condemns Theatrics in J&K Assembly as Speaker Rejects Crucial Amendments: History to Bear Witness"

Handwara MLA Slams 'Selective Rejection' of Amendments against LG Manoj Sinha's Budget Address

Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference chief and Handwara MLA, Sajad Lone, delivered a scathing critique in the Assembly on Tuesday, calling for a focus on "substance over spectacle." Lone raised concerns over the rejection of two out of his six proposed amendments to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's Budget Session speech the day before.

In his address, Lone highlighted the "selective" dismissal of amendments aimed at addressing key issues affecting Kashmiris, including their safety, the regularisation of daily wagers, and enhanced opportunities for civil service aspirants.

Speaking to the media outside the Assembly, Lone expressed disappointment over the rejection of amendments related to efforts towards Article 370, Article 35-A, restoration of J&K's statehood, and the revival of recruitment practices to tackle local youth unemployment challenges.

The four amendments that were accepted focused on the welfare of daily wagers, the status of the proposed National Law University in Kashmir, and condemning attacks on Kashmiris while emphasizing the State Government's engagement with other states on the issue.

Lone reiterated his demand for condemning attacks on Kashmiris in light of recent incidents targeting Kashmiri shawl sellers in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

In response to Lone's queries on the rejection of his amendments, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather explained that the House had previously addressed the Special Status of J&K in the first Assembly session, hence prohibiting a revisit of the subject.

Lone criticized the ruling National Conference's public protests against Sinha as mere "theatrics," emphasizing that accountability is established on the Assembly floor through debates and decisions.

He underscored the importance of voting on amendments, stating that the real test of conviction lies in legislative action rather than street demonstrations.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the National Law University, Lone clarified that despite political demands, it is a state university approved by the Cabinet in 2018. He urged against politicizing the project and emphasized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's commitment to its location.

Regarding the absence of daily wagers in the original address, Lone emphasized the need for parliamentary voting to gauge true support for the community's concerns.

Stay informed with the latest updates - Follow us on Instagram for more news.

A year after the memorable moment of Magnus Carlsen's defeat at the hands of Gukesh Dommaraju, the two chess prodigies are set to face off again at Norway Chess 2026. The teenage world champion's participation was confirmed by the event organizers, adding to the excitement of the upcoming competition.