Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference today solemnly commemorated the martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Abdul Gani Lone, paying floral tributes and remembering his unmatched contributions at the party headquarters in Church Lane.
Leaders and workers gathered to honour the legacy of a visionary who laid down his life for the ideals of peace, dignity, and dialogue in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Remembering my father Abdul Gani Lone who was killed by gunmen on this day 23 years ago,” reflected JKPC President Sajad Gani Lone, leading the commemoration. “He sacrificed his life in pursuit of his dream for peace. Those were even darker days than today. Speaking the truth often invited retribution. Never in these 23 years has the need for peace dawned on us as it has in the last thirty days. May Allah grant him Jannat.”
The distinguished gathering brought together the party’s complete senior leadership, with Senior Vice President Abdul Gani Vakil describing Lone Sahib as a “renowned political thinker and visionary leader” who “sacrificed his life for advocating peace in Jammu and Kashmir, but the enemies of peace did not allow him to complete his mission of tranquility and dialogue.”
Secretary General Molvi Imran Reza Ansari emphasized that “Marhoom Abdul Gani Lone Sahib exemplified the profound truth that genuine strength lies not in inflexible postures but in the willingness to extend hands across divides. His political acumen was matched only by his unwavering moral compass in navigating the labyrinthine complexities of his time.”
Senior Leader Abid Ansari reflected on the enduring void left by Lone’s untimely death, noting that “in the intricate tapestry of Kashmir’s history, Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s legacy radiates with rare brilliance. He was a visionary who dared to envision harmony amid prevailing discord.”
Party Leader Abbas Wani observed the paradoxical nature of Lone’s influence, stating that “in remembering Marhoom Abdul Gani Lone Sahib, we embrace the paradox—his absence amplifies the power of his vision. His unwavering commitment to public welfare echoes as a lasting symbol of principled leadership in the face of adversity.”
Chief Spokesperson Advocate Bashir Ahmed Dar highlighted the broader implications of Lone’s assassination, describing it as “not just a loss of an individual, but an attempt to silence reasoned dialogue. Yet his ideals endure—proof that while voices can be silenced, their echoes remain eternal and continue to inspire generations.”
DDC Chairman and Party Leader Irfan Pandithpori offered a poignant reminder, noting that “the tragedy of Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s martyrdom reminds us that true seekers of peace often pay the highest price. His legacy urges us to pursue peace with the same unwavering courage he embodied.”
Senior Leader Nazir Lavay praised Lone’s diplomatic capabilities, saying “Marhoom Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s intellectual breadth and political finesse exemplified the quintessence of statesmanship. On this somber anniversary, we recommit ourselves to the enlightened moderation he championed with unwavering resolve.”
Moreover, Provincial Secretary Irfan Mattoo observed “Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s unwavering commitment to principled dialogue remains our guiding light in these challenging times. His remarkable ability to bridge seemingly insurmountable divides embodies the essence of true statesmanship—a quality increasingly rare in our political landscape.
Party Leader Dr. Mudasir reflected on Lone’s lasting relevance: “The true measure of Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s impact isn’t found only in the praise he earned during his life, but in the lasting relevance of his vision. His foresight on peace and dignity continues to offer guidance amid ongoing challenges.”
Tasaduq Hussain, PS to the President, praised Lone’s dignified approach to politics: “Marhoom Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s mastery in unveiling complex political truths was matched only by his dignified calm amid chaos. His legacy stands as proof that grace and steadfast conviction endure, even through the harshest storms.”
JKPC Youth President Mudasir Karim emphasized the continuing resonance of Lone’s vision: “The Kashmir valley continues to echo the profound vision of Abdul Gani Lone Sahib—a statesman who epitomized steadfast principles and elegant diplomacy. His monumental sacrifice endures eternally as we advance his noble quest for lasting peace.”
JKPC Spokesperson Muneeb Quraishi also noted “In commemorating Marhoom Abdul Gani Lone Sahib, we honor not merely a political figure, but a visionary who transcended conventional boundaries with profound moral clarity. His steadfast advocacy for peaceful resolution, even at great personal risk, stands as a testament to genuine leadership.
Party Leader Bashir Chakloo observed that “the true measure of Abdul Gani Lone Sahib’s impact lies not only in the admiration he received but in the enduring resonance of his vision. His ideals of peace and dignity remain a beacon amid present-day trials.”
In a powerful conclusion to the tributes, Party Leader Asif Lone stated: “The martyrdom of Abdul Gani Lone Sahib remains a powerful reminder that violence is often the last resort of failed ideologies—an admission of bankruptcy when compelling ideas can’t be countered, only silenced. Yet, his vision endures.”
“Shaheed Abdul Gani Lone’s assassination 23 years ago marked one of the darkest chapters in Kashmir’s tumultuous political history. Gunned down while advocating dialogue and reconciliation, his death symbolized the perilous cost of championing peace,” a worker of PC said.
The JKPC leaders emphasized throughout the commemoration, while bullets silenced the voice of Abdul Gani Lone, they failed to extinguish the ideals he championed. They also prayed to Almighty Allah for raising his ranks among the dwellers of Jannat-ul-Firdous.
