People’s Conference president Sajad Lone, who was defeated in the Lok Sabha election from north Kashmir’s Baramulla constituency, announced on Thursday that he is taking a break to “step back, pause, and reflect.”
Independent candidate Abdul Rashid Sheikh, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, won the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat by a significant margin, defeating former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Sajad Lone.
Lone, a former separatist who turned mainstream politician, expressed his thoughts on social media, acknowledging the setback.
“I will be away for a few days. Taking a break to step back, pause, and reflect. Winning and losing is part of life. A setback, yes, but should it allow us to lose sight of our larger goal – the empowerment of our people, their dignity, development, and making their voices heard – No!” Lone posted on X.
He emphasized that elections are merely a means to a larger goal, not an end in themselves.
“This setback should invigorate us further, strengthening our commitment, conviction, and resolve towards realizing our collective goal. I would like to thank each one of my supporters who stood by me, believed in me, and strengthened my convictions,” the People’s Conference Chief said.
Lone also expressed gratitude to the Pandit and Sikh communities for their support, stating, “They remain an integral part of our larger dream for a peaceful, prosperous, and empowered Kashmir.”