In a dramatic session, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution urging the Union government to initiate talks with elected representatives to restore the special status of the erstwhile state. The resolution, introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, emphasized the need to re-establish constitutional safeguards that were removed on August 5, 2019, in a move that altered J&K’s status.
The resolution highlighted the Assembly’s stance on safeguarding the region’s unique identity, culture, and the rights of its people. “This legislative assembly reaffirms the importance of special status and constitutional guarantees, which protected the distinct identity and rights of Jammu and Kashmir,” Choudhary stated, stressing the need for any restoration process to align with both national unity and the region’s aspirations.
The BJP swiftly opposed the resolution, with Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma denouncing the proposal as politically motivated. “This resolution is a futile gesture, undermining a decision taken by Parliament, the highest democratic institution in the country,” Sharma argued, dismissing the Assembly’s authority on the matter. The statement led to uproar in the House, as NC and BJP members clashed in a heated exchange.
Chaos in Assembly as BJP protests ; NC claims victory
In a show of defiance, BJP members tore copies of the resolution and hurled them into the well of the House. NC and Congress MLAs demanded immediate passage, with Congress MLA Nizamuddin Bhat condemning BJP’s actions as a “dishonor” to the Assembly, accusing them of flouting parliamentary rules.
Amidst the chaotic scenes, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather called for a voice vote, passing the resolution amid loud protests from BJP members, who shouted slogans including “5 August zindabad,” “Jai Shri Ram,” and “anti-national agenda nahi chalega.” The Speaker briefly adjourned the House to contain the uproar.
Returning to the session, BJP MLA Sham Lal Sharma alleged bias, accusing Speaker Rather of colluding with the NC government. “This resolution was orchestrated in secrecy. The Speaker has failed to remain impartial,” Sharma asserted, arguing that the recent mandate reflects popular support for the abrogation of Article 370, as the BJP garnered 26% of the votes in recent elections.
Following the resolution’s passage, the ruling NC underscored its commitment to its manifesto, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stating on X, “By passing this resolution, the JKNC fulfils another manifesto promise, rejecting the erosion of our constitutional rights. J&K stands against the August 5, 2019 decision.”
Speaker Rather, urging order, dismissed the opposition’s objections and reminded members of their legislative responsibilities. However, as the disorder persisted, he adjourned the House once again, underscoring the tensions that persist around J&K’s special status within the Indian Union.
Today’s session reflects the continued polarization over Article 370 and the region’s future, highlighting the complex dynamics at play as J&K navigates its identity within the Indian Union.
