Asif Rashid
Jammu, Feb, 11: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on wednesday issued a clarification over his controversial remarks made in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, stating that he was fully aware of the words he had used and respected the authority of the Speaker.
Addressing the House, the Chief Minister said that if the Speaker felt his remarks were inappropriate, they could be removed from the official records. He emphasized that he had no intention of undermining the dignity of the Assembly.
Omar Abdullah reiterated his criticism of the BJP, remarking that the party resembled “a force without a commander,” alleging the absence of clear leadership. At the same time, he expressed regret over the choice of words used during the heated exchange and said he wanted to clarify his position earlier, but was not allowed to speak due to protests by BJP members.
The controversy stems from the Chief Minister’s statement made a day earlier, in which he said that since the Union Home Minister’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir, there had been frequent disruptions, and that the behaviour of Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma had changed. Following these remarks, BJP legislators expressed strong resentment, demanded an apology from the Chief Minister, and staged a walkout from the Assembly as a mark of protest.
Amid sloganeering and sharp exchanges, Omar Abdullah maintained that he respects the Speaker’s powers and the traditions of the House, calling for calm and constructive debate within the Assembly. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also said that the Leader of Opposition had also made inappropriate remarks against his family, which, he stated, reflected the shortcomings of those making such comments.
The Chief Minister said that he remains concerned about all Members of the Legislative Assembly, irrespective of party affiliations. Emphasising his constitutional role, Omar Abdullah stated that as the Chief Minister of the entire Jammu and Kashmir, it is his responsibility to ensure fairness and justice for everyone.
He further said that additional grants and adequate budgetary allocations should be made available so that no region, constituency, or voter feels deprived or discriminated against. Omar Abdullah stressed that development and welfare must reach every corner of Jammu and Kashmir without bias.
Calling for maturity and restraint in political discourse, the Chief Minister urged members to rise above personal attacks and work collectively in the larger interest of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
