Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference President & Handwara MLA Sajad Lone today appealed to the Prime Minister and the Home Ministry to “ensure that any citizen of India, including Kashmiris, are not harassed in their own country.”
In a statement, Lone expressed profound concern over reports of harassment of Kashmiris across the country, calling upon the Central government to ensure their safety and dignity.
“Reports of harassment of Kashmiris across India are coming in. Stereotyping of a Kashmiri, unfortunately, is a favourite hobby across the country,” Lone stated, adding, “it is not a new trend. It is just that it has become more chronic in the last decade.”
Highlighting the anxiety faced by Kashmiri families, the JKPC chief said, “I am sure lakhs of Kashmiris are in other parts of the country for purposes of business or education or some other work.”
He said the families of these people are most concerned that no adverse events should take place, which will put the safety of their loved ones in danger.
Lone acknowledged that extremism exists but emphasized it should not define an entire community. “Yes, there are radical lunatics in every society. But they are an aberration,” he remarked, warning that “in case of Kashmir, the primary purpose of their actions is to ensure that the Kashmiri is harassed and chased away in his own country.”
He made a direct appeal to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Home Ministry, urging them to “ensure that any citizen of India, including Kashmiris, are not harassed in their own country.”
