Srinagar: Tensions escalated in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday as PDP MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para introduced a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370 and calling for the restoration of special status to the union territory. The move sparked immediate backlash from BJP legislators, who voiced strong objections.
The resolution, proposed by the Pulwama MLA, came shortly after National Conference (NC) leader Abdul Rahim Rather was elected as the first Speaker of the legislative assembly for the union territory. “Keeping the sentiments of the people of J&K in mind, this House opposes the revocation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir,” Para declared while introducing the resolution. PDP Supremo Mehbooba Mufti praised the PDP leader for his initiative, stating, “Proud of Waheed Para for introducing a resolution in the JK Assembly opposing the revocation of Article 370 and resolving to restore the special status. God bless you,” in a post on X.
In response, BJP MLAs rose in unison, with Sham Lal Sharma demanding Para’s suspension, citing a breach of assembly procedures. Rather attempted to restore order, requesting the protesting members to return to their seats, but his calls went unheeded. He clarified that he had yet to receive the resolution formally and assured that he would examine it upon receipt.
Reacting to the development, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned Para’s actions, asserting that such resolutions cannot be introduced unilaterally. “No single member can take a decision on the issue of Article 370. Resolutions cannot be introduced like this. This is nothing but politics,” he stated, urging the Speaker to adjourn the House. Abdullah further criticized the resolution, noting that it was indicative of the ongoing political dynamics in the region and that the resolution held no significance but was merely a spectacle for the cameras. The abrogation of Article 370, which ended Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, was enacted by the Centre on August 5, 2019, and remains a contentious issue in the region.
