Srinagar : The newly reconvened Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly experienced significant turmoil on its first day of session on Monday, marking the first assembly meeting in six years. The atmosphere was charged as the People's Democratic Party (PDP) member Waheed Para introduced a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370, which previously granted special status to the region, while simultaneously calling for the restoration of statehood. As the session commenced, Abdul Rather, a senior leader from the National Conference, was elected as the Speaker of the House. Para wasted no time in presenting his resolution, stating, "Considering the sentiments of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, this House opposes the decision to withdraw the special status of Jammu and Kashmir."
However, his remarks were met with uproar as all 28 members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) began to create a scene in the assembly hall. The chaos escalated further when Rather announced that Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha would address the assembly, prompting a sudden silence among BJP members. In his address, Sinha reaffirmed the new government's commitment to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. "This government is dedicated to fulfilling the expectations of the people, and it is the strong desire of the people to regain the status of statehood," he emphasized.
He also echoed the notion that the decision made on August 5, 2019, was not in the best interest of the people. However, tensions continued to rise, with former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticizing the resolution as a mere publicity stunt. Abdullah stated, "Today's resolution was presented purely for publicity," underscoring the ongoing division of sentiments among the political representatives. As the assembly session unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate the tumultuous landscape of Jammu and Kashmir's political climate and address the pressing demands of its citizens for statehood and representation.