JNM Journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
The political situation in Jammu and Kashmir has once again heated up. Sajjad Gani Lone made a major revelation in the Assembly, strongly condemning the attack on Farooq Abdullah. He said that when his father was assassinated by terrorists, the then government refused to provide him security even to attend the funeral.
Speaking in the House, Lone said that attacks on any leader are condemnable and should be investigated impartially, but double standards should not be adopted regarding security. He alleged that every government has compromised the security of its opponents and used it as a political weapon.
Lone, becoming emotional, recalled the incident in 2000, when his father, Abdul Gani Lone, was assassinated by terrorists at the Eidgah ground in Srinagar. He said that at that time, he was prevented from attending the funeral and was denied security, despite the dangers. There was every apprehension.
He said, “Imagine what a son goes through when his father is murdered and he has to ask for security to attend his own funeral, only to be denied it.” He added that there are thousands of families in Kashmir who have suffered similar pain.
Lone clearly stated that ideological differences should not hinder a person’s security. He said that if governments deliberately withhold security, it raises very serious questions.
However, he reiterated that the attack on Farooq Abdullah is completely wrong and condemnable. Describing him as a vibrant and popular leader, he said that it is the government’s responsibility to rise above politics and ensure everyone’s safety.
Finally, Lone said that the time has come for all parties to resolve not to politicize the issue of security, as it is the most sensitive subject involving a person’s life.
