SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather rejected the BJP’s call for him to reverse the resolution on the region’s special status or resign from his role. Rather firmly advised the opposition party to file a no-confidence motion if they had issues with his leadership, rather than disrupt the proceedings of the Assembly.
“I cannot tolerate such disrespect for national symbols. As Speaker, I must ensure that such actions do not go unchecked,” Rather said, highlighting his responsibility to maintain decorum in the legislative proceedings. He also instructed marshals to prevent any member from entering the Well of the House and creating disorder.
The Speaker further criticised the BJP for not adhering to parliamentary procedures and encouraged them to familiarise themselves with the Assembly’s rules. Regarding the resolution from a group of MLAs from PDP, Peoples Conference, and Awami Ittehad Party, Rather clarified that he had not yet received it and emphasized that any such resolution must follow the correct submission process to be considered.
Rather has been making attempts to restore order for the last two days. On Wednesday when the House adopted a JKNC-initiated resolution, the opposition BJP prevented any business from being transacted. The house was adjourned for the day after three intermittent adjournments. On Thursday, it was almost the same situation with the BJP lawmakers physically;ly attacking some members for carrying a banner demanding the restoration of Article 370. The House was adjourned. After it resumed the pandemonium resumed rolling the house. Though the Speaker ordered marshalls to throw the BJP troublemakers out, the House still could not function and was adjourned for the day.
