SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Friday chaired a joint meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) and representatives of all political parties at the Assembly Secretariat here to finalise arrangements for the upcoming Budget Session beginning February 2, 2026.
The meeting focused on finalising the legislative agenda, strengthening coordination among parties and ensuring smooth conduct of the session. Members present included Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mubarik Gul, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, Surjit Singh Slathia, Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Mir Mohammad Fayaz and Choudhary Mohammad Akram.
Addressing the meeting, the Speaker said it was the responsibility of every Member of the House, irrespective of party affiliation, to ensure orderly functioning of the Assembly. He urged Members to raise public issues sincerely and highlight problems faced by their constituencies for effective redressal by the government.
Emphasising the importance of parliamentary conduct, Rather called for healthy debates and discussions while maintaining discipline, cautioning against disorder and disruptions that could undermine the dignity of the House. He said the proceedings are closely watched by the public and irresponsible behaviour sends a negative message.
The Speaker stressed that the Question Hour should not be disrupted, describing it as the most important mechanism for raising public issues and holding the government accountable. He urged party leaders to advise their members to allow Question Hour to function smoothly so that the maximum number of questions could be taken up.
Members also offered suggestions to make the Budget Session more productive, raising issues related to parking facilities within the Secretariat premises and restricting access to the lobby and canteen, which are meant exclusively for legislators.
Assuring the Members, the Speaker said necessary directions had already been issued to the concerned departments to make appropriate arrangements. He also informed that a separate area near the main entrance of the Assembly Secretariat has been designated for media interactions, while the lobby and central hall will remain reserved solely for Members.
Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Manoj Kumar Pandita, along with senior officers of the Assembly Secretariat, attended the meeting.
