In Srinagar, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, senior political leader Bilal Gani Lone voiced his support for Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, cautioning against what he described as "shallow, dishonest and dangerous attempts" to diminish the Mirwaiz's stature using social media. Lone emphasized that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's significance extends far beyond a Twitter bio and that reducing his role to social media commentary reflects a profound misunderstanding of his position and responsibilities.

According to a statement issued to Kashmir News Service (KNS), Lone asserted that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's stature cannot be measured by a Twitter bio. He highlighted that Mirwaiz is the custodian of an institution representing faith, culture, and collective identity, transcending the political arena. As a political leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has consistently advocated for peace, unity, and reconciliation, rather than the pursuit of power.

Lone emphasized his long-standing association with Mirwaiz, stating that he has known and worked with him for over two decades and can personally vouch for his sincerity, sense of purpose, and unwavering commitment to the self-respect and dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He noted the personal sacrifices Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has made, including losing his father and uncle to the conflict at a young age, while shouldering significant responsibilities.

Reiterating his personal bond, Lone said he regards Mirwaiz Umar Farooq as a younger brother, irrespective of political differences, and that disagreements have never diminished his responsibility to stand by him as a friend and as a matter of principle. He said these values were instilled in him by his father, who sacrificed his life in pursuit of peace and reconciliation and that he continues to carry that mission forward through democratic means, seeking relief and dignity for people who have been wronged, humiliated and abused.

Lone appealed for responsible discourse, asserting that irresponsible conduct should be held accountable under the law. He characterized attempts to undermine Mirwaiz's role through social media as a profound misunderstanding of his position and responsibilities.

Bilal Gani Lone's remarks come amidst his own shift towards mainstream politics, a move he attributes to a personal conviction to pursue a genuine political process. While acknowledging the Hurriyat's past failures, Lone maintains strong ties with Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, recognizing him as a leader of great stature with a significant role to play.