Jammu, March 10: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was thrown into chaos on Monday as legislators from both the ruling and opposition parties disrupted proceedings, demanding discussions on two sensitive issues—the recent killings in Kathua and the controversial fashion show in Gulmarg.
As soon as the session began, MLAs rose from their seats, calling for a debate on both matters. The House was soon filled with shouting, making it impossible for the Speaker to restore order for nearly 20 minutes.
Dr. Rameshwar, the MLA from Bani, who was assaulted on Sunday in Billawar, tried to storm into the well of the House. The Speaker, however, condemned the attack on him and announced an inquiry into the incident.
In an attempt to calm the agitated members, the Speaker assured that investigations were already underway for both cases but explained that, under Rule 59, matters under investigation could not be discussed in the Assembly. Following this clarification, the legislators allowed the Question Hour to proceed.
The tragic deaths of three youths in the Billawar area of Kathua, two days after they went missing, had sparked outrage. Their bodies were discovered in a deep gorge on Saturday, and the deaths are believed to be the result of a militant attack. A probe has been launched into the matter.
Speaking on the floor of the House, Cm Omar Abdullah criticized the organizers, saying those who hosted it “did not apply their brains.
He said that the administration had not granted permission for the show.
“Some people say the event should not have been organized in the holy month of Ramadhan, but I say it should not have been organized in any month,” he asserted.
Despite the government’s non-involvement, Abdullah said an inquiry had been ordered, and if necessary, the matter would be referred to the police.
Expressing solidarity with the family of the Kathua victim, Abdullah acknowledged their grief and assured support.
Meanwhile, chaos erupted in the Assembly as three legislators, including AIP’s Sheikh Khurheed Ahmad, were marshaled out when they attempted to storm the well of the House. (KDC)
