Avinash Azad
Srinagar, Nov 4:
The first day of the winter session in Jammu and Kashmir’s Union Territory Assembly erupted into chaos after PDP MLA Waheed ur Rehman Parra introduced a resolution calling for the restoration of Article 370, which granted special status to the region. The resolution triggered heated arguments, leading to a standoff between ruling and opposition members.
Parra’s resolution argued for reinstating Article 370, contending that the 2019 revocation disregarded the aspirations of Jammu and Kashmir’s people. His proposal was met with immediate pushback, particularly from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members, who dismissed the move as an attempt to stir unnecessary controversy. Amidst the verbal clash, members raised slogans, with the Speaker struggling to maintain order.
CM Omar Abdullah Labels Resolution a ‘Publicity Stunt’
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, leader of the house, was quick to dismiss Parra’s resolution, terming it “a publicity stunt.” Addressing the Assembly, Abdullah stated, “We were aware this resolution was coming. However, it’s evident that this was done solely to grab camera attention. The reality is that the people of Jammu and Kashmir do not agree with the move made on August 5, 2019.”
Abdullah further critiqued the approach, arguing that if the resolution held genuine merit, Parra would have consulted with senior members beforehand. “How this House discusses and reflects upon critical issues cannot be dictated by a single member. This resolution carries no weight; it’s purely for show,” Abdullah said, adding that the entire Assembly should aim to address the issues concerning the public’s well-being instead of revisiting the past.
Mehbooba Mufti Lauds Parra’s “Brave Step”
Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti extended public support to Parra. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mufti commended him, writing, “Proud of Waheed Parra for introducing a resolution in the J&K Assembly opposing the revocation of Article 370 and resolving to restore the special status. God bless you.” Her message has since sparked widespread debate online, with strong reactions from both supporters and critics. The standoff in the Assembly reflects the deeply polarized perspectives surrounding Article 370, with opposing political camps firm on their respective stances. The disruption on the first day of the session foreshadows a turbulent winter session, as J&K’s political discourse continues to grapple with the legacy and implications of the 2019 abrogation.
