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SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly has passed a resolution advocating for the re-establishment of special status for the region.
Introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Singh Choudhary from the National Conference, the measure aims to address the diminished constitutional protections that once preserved Jammu and Kashmir’s unique culture, identity, and rights.
During the extended session, Choudhary emphasized that reviving the special status was crucial to maintaining the region’s distinct identity and self-governance. The resolution calls on India’s government to initiate dialogue with Jammu and Kashmir’s representatives to consider ways to restore these safeguards.
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However, the resolution faced sharp criticism from BJP’s Leader of Opposition, Sunil Sharma, who questioned the process, insisting the scheduled agenda was to discuss the Lieutenant Governor’s address. Sharma challenged the legitimacy of the motion, asking, “How could a resolution be raised at this moment?” Other BJP members echoed his objections.
Despite this, Minister Sakina Masood Itoo backed the measure, demonstrating significant support within segments of the Assembly. Independent legislators including Sheikh Khursheed and Shabir Kullay, as well as People’s Conference leader Sajad Lone and three PDP lawmakers, showed strong support for the resolution.
Following a heated debate, Speaker Abdur Rahim Rather put the measure to a vote, where it was approved by a majority. The decision prompted further protests from BJP members, leading to a 15-minute adjournment to restore order in the Assembly.
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This move reopens discussions on Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, which was revoked on August 5, 2019, when the central government reorganized the area into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The National Conference, in its manifesto, had vowed to advocate for the restoration of both statehood and special status. J&K National Conference’s Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq took to social media, posting, “Congratulations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir! Today, your voice resonated in the august house.”
