Jammu, Feb 3: National Conference leader and Hazratbal MLA Salman Ali Sagar on Tuesday urged the Government of India to take bold steps to reintegrate political leaders who have, for various reasons, remained outside the mainstream political spectrum. Speaking in response to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s address to the Assembly on Monday, Sagar said the Centre must make sustained efforts to bring such leaders back into the democratic fold.
Sagar also demanded the release of political prisoners, calling for a general amnesty for youth detained without trial and languishing in jails across the country on minor charges. He argued that their prolonged incarceration without proper legal recourse is both unjust and counterproductive to the broader goal of reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing coalition partners, especially the Congress party, Sagar said, “Our coalition partners, with all due respect, should also forcefully voice the aspirations of the people here at the national level. Whether in Parliament or outside, they should realize the demand of the state.” He stressed that the demand for restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a major political bloc, and urged the Congress leadership—as a “major national party”—to amplify this demand, saying their support could make a substantial difference.
Salman praised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s approach, describing it as a “genuine healing touch” and urging both Delhi and the opposition to appreciate the difficult balancing act being performed by the NC‑led government. “Given the situation, I am confident the people in Delhi must understand the fine balance Omar Sahb is maintaining, which is not easy,” he said.
Criticising the opposition, Sagar remarked that they are quick to oppose every government move on social media, often without considering ground realities. He cautioned against forgetting the historical context, saying, “Sometimes people say, ‘Let’s forget,’ but we will not forget, because these stains—statehood, business rules, return of seats—are the result of those who today talk of reconciliation and healing touch.”
Sagar also highlighted the need for unity among all political forces, including the BJP, Congress, alliance partners and independents, to work for the benefit of Jammu and Kashmir. He contrasted national unity seen in states like Maharashtra and Bengal with the fragmented politics in J&K, where he said the BJP is divided and focused only on Jammu, while some members speak only for their constituencies.
In conclusion, Salman appealed for respect for ongoing efforts, called for political reconciliation and inclusive dialogue, and urged all stakeholders to unite behind the Chief Minister’s work for the people, stressing that restoration of statehood and real democracy in Jammu and Kashmir must be a collective goal.
