Srinagar, Oct 30: Opposition BJP legislators staged a walkout from the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday after their adjournment motion seeking a discussion on the recent floods was rejected by the Speaker. The protest, which began during the Question Hour, marked the first walkout of the Assembly’s autumn session.
The BJP MLAs remained standing for the entire Question Hour, pressing for an immediate debate on the flood situation and demanding the suspension of other business. They accused the government of “running away from discussion” on the plight of flood-affected citizens across the Union Territory.
Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather refused to adjourn the proceedings, stating that the motion could not be admitted under Rule 58(12), which bars repetition of a previously disallowed motion. “We will see after the Question Hour,” the Speaker said, urging the BJP legislators to resume their seats.
Unconvinced, BJP MLA Rajiv Jasrotia accused the Speaker of breaking his earlier assurance to allow the resolution. “You had promised to take it up, but you didn’t keep your word,” he said.
Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma hit out at the government, saying it had failed the flood-affected people. “The government seems disinterested in discussing a disaster that has affected every corner of J&K. Why is it hiding behind procedural excuses?” Sharma asked, also alleging corruption in the Public Works Department.
The remarks led to a heated exchange between the treasury and opposition benches. NC MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan Gurezi accused the BJP of “enacting a drama and wasting the House’s time,” while Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary retorted, “Chor machaye shor” (thieves are making noise).
Amid the uproar, two BJP MLAs R.S. Pathania and Surinder Kumar were marshalled out after entering the well of the House. Another MLA, Shagun Parihar, was restrained by female watch and ward staff.
Following the Question Hour, BJP legislators walked out of the Assembly, shouting slogans against the government and demanding Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s resignation for “unfulfilled promises” and alleged administrative apathy.