Srinagar, Aug. 15 -- In a statement posted on microblogging site X, Lone said he would back any genuine effort towards the restoration of statehood but cautioned against reducing the cause to "theatrics." He asserted that approaching the Supreme Court through constitutional means was the only credible way forward.

"We will support any movement towards statehood. But please don't make a mockery of statehood. We are already reeling under the impact of a 'Tom, Dick and Harry' approaching the Supreme Court. Let us approach the Supreme Court as a constitutional entity, not as another 'Tom, Dick and Harry.' Signature campaigns have no legal or constitutional sanctity," Lone said.

The Handwara legislator challenged the CM to explain why he has...