In a heated session, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has once again faced intense debate and disruption over a resolution demanding the restoration of special status to the region. For three consecutive days, members of the assembly have clashed over this proposal, igniting tensions and sparking a divisive standoff among political parties. Calls for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, central to the region’s autonomy, have reignited debate on Kashmir’s future status and governance.
Contentious Resolution Sparks Outcry
The discord began on Wednesday when the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) introduced a resolution to reinstate special status. The BJP responded strongly, labeling the resolution “illegal” and calling for its immediate withdrawal. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather rejected these demands, stating that the assembly, not the Speaker, held the authority to reverse any passed resolution. As BJP legislators continued to challenge this stance, they flooded the well of the house, escalating the conflict.
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Protests and Scuffles Disrupt Assembly
During a speech by BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Sheikh Khursheed entered the assembly holding a banner in support of Articles 370 and 35A. This led to a physical altercation as BJP members attempted to seize and tear down the banner. People’s Conference MLA Sajad Lone intervened, supporting Khursheed, sparking further disorder and a 15-minute adjournment of the House.
Upon resumption, Speaker Rather attempted to restore order. Despite his warnings, BJP members persisted in chanting slogans honoring Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, while NC legislators countered with chants highlighting the sacrifices made for Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy. Tensions escalated when the Speaker ordered the removal of protesting BJP members, which led to physical confrontations with assembly marshals. Ultimately, three BJP MLAs were escorted out of the assembly, an action applauded by treasury bench members.
Allegations and Accusations Fly
In his address, Minister Satish Sharma condemned BJP’s actions, accusing the party of divisive tactics and disrespecting the constitution by allegedly standing on it during protests. He urged disciplinary action, underscoring the need for decorum. Meanwhile, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), People’s Conference, and AIP MLAs submitted a fresh resolution. Spearheaded by PDP’s Waheed Para and Fayaz Mir along with Sajad Lone, this resolution criticized the 2019 abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, describing it as “unconstitutional” and a breach of the foundational agreements extended to Jammu and Kashmir.
Diverging Stances on Special Status Restoration
Sajad Lone criticized the NC, accusing the party of engaging in a “fixed match” with the BJP, claiming their initial resolution lacked firm opposition to the abrogation. BJP MLA RS Pathania countered that the regional parties’ stance compromised the Assembly’s integrity, asserting that the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 should be considered a settled matter.
This week’s tumultuous sessions reflect the growing divide between parties over Kashmir’s special status, with some pressing for restoration and others viewing the issue as closed. As debates continue, the assembly faces the challenge of balancing diverse viewpoints on a matter deeply tied to the region’s history and future stability.
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