Srinagar, October 24: Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone on Saturday voiced strong criticism against Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding his reported remarks to party MLAs about not seeking ministerial berths. Lone described the Chief Minister’s comments as “contemptuous and disdainful,” asserting that they demeaned the political class.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Lone conveyed his dismay via a post on X, titled “The Cult of Self.” He stated that he had observed Omar Abdullah addressing the media following a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and was disheartened by the tone and content regarding the allocation of ministerial positions.
“I honestly can’t believe that these MLAs are comfortable with such belittling and humiliating remarks,” Lone wrote. He suggested that if the Chief Minister found it difficult to accommodate legislators in the cabinet, he should refrain from publicly humiliating them.
While acknowledging that the matter pertained to the internal affairs of the National Conference, Lone emphasized that such statements carry broader implications for the political landscape. “You may direct the derision at your own members but it invariably belittles the political class,” he stated.
Lone questioned the ability of elected representatives to face their constituents when they are subjected to treatment he characterized as akin to “unworthy and incapable school boys.” He referenced Tasha Eurich’s book, “The Power of Self-Awareness in a Self-Deluded World,” implying that an unnamed individual urgently needed to reflect on its lessons, suggesting that person was “certainly self-deluded.”
Quoting the author, Lone reiterated the sentiment: “The least competent people are usually the most confident in their abilities.” He appealed to elected MLAs to resist allowing the political fraternity to endure such public disparagement.
He concluded by stating, “We deserve better.” The exchange highlights ongoing political discourse and tensions within Jammu and Kashmir’s political circles concerning power dynamics and the respect afforded to elected officials.
The Chenab Times News Desk