J&K assembly passes resolution to restore 'special status'

In a significant move, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution on Wednesday calling for the restoration of the Union Territory’s special status. The resolution urges the Government of India to engage in dialogue with elected representatives from Jammu and Kashmir to establish constitutional mechanisms to restore the region’s previous constitutional provisions. This move, however, faced strong opposition from the BJP, leading to a tense session in the Assembly.

The resolution emphasized the importance of Jammu and Kashmir's special status, highlighting its role in protecting the identity, culture, and rights of the people in the region. It expressed concern over the unilateral removal of these provisions, stating that any restoration process must balance national unity with the genuine aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

National Conference legislator and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary introduced the resolution, sparking immediate resistance from BJP members. Leader of the Opposition, BJP’s Sunil Sharma, opposed the resolution, arguing that it was not part of the day’s scheduled business and thus, should not be considered.

A heated debate followed, with BJP legislators vocally opposing the resolution while all other members—apart from Congress—backed it. Jammu and Kashmir Congress chief Tariq Karra and leader Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed notably abstained from voicing support, maintaining silence throughout the debate.

As the BJP continued to disrupt proceedings, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather threatened to put the resolution to a vote. The opposition persisted in its protest, with slogans filling the Assembly, both for and against the resolution. Eventually, the Speaker proceeded with a voice vote, through which the resolution was passed, prompting the BJP members to storm into the Well of the House.

The Speaker then adjourned the House amid the ongoing uproar. With this resolution, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has reignited the conversation around the special status, marking a significant moment in the region’s political landscape.