New Delhi, September 4, 2023 - The ongoing legal battle over the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution took an unexpected turn as the Centre raised objections to National Conference (NC) leader Mohammad Akbar Lone, the lead petitioner in the case. Allegations of Lone shouting pro-Pakistan slogans in the past were brought before the Supreme Court on the fifteenth day of the hearing.
As the bench, comprising Justice SK Kaul, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice BR Gavai, and Justice Surya Kant, convened for the day's proceedings, an advocate representing the NGO 'Roots in Kashmir' introduced a startling revelation. The advocate filed an affidavit claiming that Mohammad Akbar Lone had shouted pro-Pakistan slogans in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly in 2018, as well as in other instances.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta promptly intervened, urging Lone to file an affidavit asserting his allegiance to the Constitution of India and his opposition to secessionist forces and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, given Lone's status as an MP, stating, "Despite it being brought to the notice of the court, if he does nothing, it might encourage others... The efforts of the nation to bring in normalcy... which is substantially successful might be affected. Coming from responsible leaders, it has its own seriousness."
Senior counsel V Giri echoed these sentiments, suggesting that Lone should issue an apology for his pro-Pakistan slogans and statements. Giri argued, "Somebody comes before the highest court of the land, challenges Presidential Orders and he doesn't apologize. If he has made that statement, his submissions should be taken on record only if he apologizes before your lordships and puts it on record."
The unexpected focus on Akbar Lone's alleged pro-Pakistan sentiments adds a complex dimension to the already contentious Article 370 hearings. As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the proceedings and the broader debate surrounding the abrogation of Article 370.
This case continues to draw national attention, with many eagerly awaiting the Supreme Court's final decision on the matter. The allegations against Mohammad Akbar Lone further underscore the high stakes involved in this pivotal legal battle.
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