Jammu, Feb 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly witnessed intense scenes for the second straight day as opposition BJP members protested remarks made earlier by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, demanding clarification and withdrawal of the statement.
As proceedings began, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma objected to the language allegedly used by the Chief Minister, calling it unparliamentary and unprecedented in the history of the House. He said the dignity of the Assembly must be maintained and asserted that the public felt uncomfortable over the exchange.
“The words used were inappropriate. We want to know whether the Chief Minister stands by them or will withdraw them,” Sharma said, adding that it was the responsibility of the ruling side to ensure smooth functioning of the House.
In response, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Ittoo accused the opposition of using objectionable language against members of the treasury benches. She claimed that certain personal remarks were made against the Deputy Chief Minister and said the ruling side had been instructed not to disrupt proceedings.
The situation escalated when heated arguments broke out between members from both sides. The Deputy Chief Minister intervened during Sharma’s address, leading to further verbal exchanges.
BJP MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia alleged that the Chief Minister’s remarks were directed collectively at BJP legislators and termed them inappropriate. National Conference MLA Aijaz Jan countered by accusing BJP members of making derogatory comments about people from the Pir Panchal region.
Sakina Ittoo also raised the issue of students at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Sciences, alleging that careers of several students were adversely affected due to earlier decisions and demanding an apology from the opposition.
NC MLA Nazir Gurezi stated that the Chief Minister intended to clarify his remarks but was not given an opportunity to speak amid the disruptions.
Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather urged members to allow Question Hour to proceed, saying the Chief Minister was not present in the House at that moment and would respond if he chose to do so later. He appealed for calm and warned that he had the authority to take action if necessary.
Despite repeated appeals, BJP members continued their protest and eventually walked out of the House around 10:30 a.m., marking another day of confrontation between the ruling National Conference and the opposition BJP.
