Srinagar, Dec 24 (KINS): Congress MLA Irfan Hafiz Lone on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of pursuing divisive politics and undermining the Constitution, democratic institutions, and the spirit of the Indian Republic.
Talking to reporters in Baramulla Lone said the BJP’s political ideology was based on “divide and rule” and alleged that the party was weakening constitutional values and institutions for political gain. “Their politics is unjustified and based on hatred and division. They have attacked the Constitution, institutions, and the very idea of the Republic,” he said, according to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS).
Referring to recent developments, the Congress MLA alleged that the BJP had failed to honour its promises, including assurances related to employment, economic growth, and welfare. “They promised Rs 15 lakh in every account after bringing back black money. Where is it? They promised jobs and ‘achhe din’. Are these the good days?” he questioned.
Lone also criticised the downgrading of Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory, calling it unprecedented in the country’s history. “Has any full-fledged state ever been reduced to a Union Territory like Jammu and Kashmir?” he asked.
Highlighting the economic distress in the region, Lone said prolonged restrictions and instability had severely impacted tourism and the horticulture sector, particularly the apple industry, which is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. He said thousands of people lost livelihoods due to policy decisions and recurring uncertainty.
Referring to Pahalgam incident, Lone termed it unfortunate and said such incidents further damage tourism, leading to unemployment and economic hardship. “People are already struggling with inflation, unemployment, and declining income from fruit production,” he said.
The Congress leader also accused the BJP of attempting to erase Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy. “They think removing Gandhi’s name will erase him from history. But Gandhi belongs not just to India, but to the world. People love and respect him,” Lone said.
He further criticised the Centre over the now-repealed farm laws, saying the government was forced to withdraw them only after sustained protests and the loss of innocent lives.
Lone alleged misuse of central agencies such as the ED and CBI to target opposition leaders but asserted that the Congress would continue its struggle democratically. “They tried to scare us, but we are not afraid. We will fight peacefully and constitutionally,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the party’s leadership, Lone said Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi had always stood for democracy and the rule of law. “We will continue this fight with strength and patience. Inshallah, truth will prevail,” he added. (KINS)
