Chaos Erupts in J&K Assembly Over Article 370 Resolution
Political Tensions Flare in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Over Article 370
Srinagar: For the third day in a row, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed intense disruptions following the introduction of a resolution advocating for the reinstatement of Articles 370 and 35A. The session, marked by shouting matches, scuffles, and walkouts, has spotlighted the deep political divide over the region’s special status.
The uproar began when the National Conference (NC) introduced the resolution, calling for the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy. The BJP vehemently opposed the move, labeling it “illegal” and demanding its withdrawal. However, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather stood firm, asserting that only the House could reverse any resolution.
BJP Protests and Scuffles
During BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma’s speech, Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) leader Sheikh Khursheed staged a protest in the assembly well, brandishing a banner calling for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. This prompted BJP legislators to intervene, tearing the banner and leading to a brief scuffle. People’s Conference MLA Sajad Lone joined the fray, resulting in a 15-minute adjournment.
When the session resumed, BJP members persisted in their protest, chanting slogans in honour of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee. The NC countered with chants emphasizing the historic sacrifices for Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy. The Speaker eventually ordered the removal of several BJP MLAs, who were forcibly escorted out amid cheers from the treasury benches.
Allegations and Counter-Allegations
Minister Satish Sharma criticized the BJP for allegedly “disrespecting the Constitution” by standing on it during their protest. He called for disciplinary action, accusing the party of using divisive tactics to disrupt proceedings.
Meanwhile, a coalition of PDP, People’s Conference, and AIP MLAs submitted a fresh resolution condemning the 2019 abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A. Spearheaded by PDP MLAs Waheed Para and Fayaz Mir, alongside People’s Conference MLA Sajad Lone, the resolution termed the abrogation “unconstitutional” and a betrayal of foundational guarantees.
Sajad Lone also accused the NC of playing a “fixed match” with the BJP, alleging their initial resolution lacked sufficient condemnation of the 2019 move.
BJP Stands Firm
BJP MLA RS Pathania dismissed the resolutions as attempts to undermine the Assembly’s integrity. He reiterated that the abrogation of Article 370 was a settled issue and accused regional parties of rekindling unnecessary debates.
The Assembly’s ongoing turmoil reflects the enduring tensions surrounding Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. As debates intensify, the region’s political future remains a contentious subject, drawing sharp divides within the Assembly.
