National Conference MLA Hilal Akbar Lone has firmly refuted any suggestions of internal dissent or a potential rebellion within the party, asserting that his allegiance to the National Conference and its leadership remains unwavering. This strong declaration comes in the wake of speculation that arose following Chief Minister Omar Abdullah‘s expansion of the Council of Ministers on October 27.
Lone, who was among the legislators present at a gathering hosted by a colleague the day after the cabinet reshuffle, clarified that his attendance was not an indication of any disloyalty or disagreement with the party’s direction. He expressed disappointment that the meeting had been misconstrued by some, stating that he had no intention of betraying his leader or his party. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that Lone emphasized the profound connection he and other party members feel towards the National Conference, crediting it with their political existence and success. He articulated that their commitment to the party transcends any considerations of official positions or power.
The party leadership has also previously dismissed reports of any internal strife. Showkat Mir, the provincial secretary (Kashmir) for the National Conference, had characterized the gathering of MLAs on Friday as a routine, cordial get-together held in anticipation of the Darbar Move, a customary practice where the government alternates its functioning between Jammu and Srinagar seasonally. Lone further elaborated on his family’s long-standing ties to the party, highlighting the dedication of his father, Mohd Akbar Lone, a former Member of Parliament and minister, who devoted his life to the National Conference. He noted that the party, in turn, had consistently supported his father in achieving his political ambitions.
Recalling his own nomination as the candidate from Sonawari, Hilal Akbar Lone pointed out that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally announced his name. He stated that neither he nor his father had actively lobbied for the party mandate, underscoring his profound sense of indebtedness to the party and its leader. He believes that the trust and support extended by the party and the electorate have only solidified his loyalty. Echoing his father’s steadfast commitment, Lone reiterated his own unwavering fidelity to the National Conference and its leader, Omar Abdullah.
He unequivocally stated that no external pressure, personal gain, or ambition for power would ever sway his loyalty to the party and its leadership. However, Lone acknowledged that if any legislators harbored genuine concerns, they would present these to the Chief Minister upon his return from Delhi. He stressed that as their leader, Omar Abdullah would be receptive to any issues brought to his attention by party members. Lone urged an end to the speculative discussions, advocating instead for a collective focus on collaborative efforts to improve the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Lone also accused those who had interpreted the gathering negatively of attempting to sow unnecessary confusion, suggesting that such actions might be instigated by opposition parties or individuals with vested interests. He passionately asserted that the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference is intrinsically linked to the identity and well-being of Jammu and Kashmir itself. He concluded by stating that any attempt to weaken the National Conference would be tantamount to undermining the very fabric of the region, a scenario they would never permit.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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