Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Nov 4: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today criticized the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) move for bringing resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Article 370 and termed it pointless and intended for media attention.
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Omar while responding to the resolution of the PDP said that while the Assembly reflects the aspirations of the people of J&K, decisions on such resolutions should be left to the treasury benches.
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“We were aware that preparations for this move were underway, but we hoped such matters would arise only after the Speaker’s election and the Lieutenant Governor’s address. Sadly, some members choose to engage in politics instead of serious business,” he said.
The Chief Minister further criticized the resolution, calling it “pointless” and intended for media attention. “The resolution brought today holds no importance. It is only for the cameras. Had there been genuine purpose, they would have consulted us to decide what to present through the House,” he added.
He said this Assembly reflects the aspirations of the people of J&K and until now, the people of J&K have not approved the decision made on August 5, 2019.
“Had they done so, the results would have been different. We are sitting here and the majority of us have raised their voices against that decision,” he said.
Omar said that in this session only the treasury benches will decide which resolutions to be brought in the House and which not.
“How this House reflects, discusses, and records this matter should not be determined by a single honourable member. In the future, when private members’ business begins in the main session, he can raise the issue. For this session, what the house decides and which resolutions will be brought forward will be determined by the treasury benches,” he said.
Earlier, Omar congratulated Abdul Rahim Rather on his election as Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
In his speech before the Assembly, the Chief Minister highlighted Rather’s extensive legislative experience and the unanimous support he has received from the members.
“On behalf of myself and the entire House, I extend my congratulations on your election as Speaker,” said Omar.
“You were the natural choice for this esteemed position, and today’s voice vote affirmed this, as there was not a single dissenting voice. Your extensive experience and your long standing commitment to this Assembly were clearly recognized by all members.”
Reflecting on the history of the Legislative Assembly, Omar lauded Rather’s contributions and his service towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir, both in Government and in Opposition, emphasizing his steadfast dedication. “From the time of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah to the present, you have been an integral part of this Assembly, serving the people through various capacities,” he noted.
In his address, the Chief Minister expressed confidence in Rather’s role as the Assembly’s custodian, underlining the Speaker’s responsibility to uphold the interests of all members and guide them in fulfilling their duties. “We are hopeful that you will protect the interests of all members, maintaining a watchful eye not only on the opposition but also on those who may deviate from their responsibilities, offering them necessary support and guidance,” he stated.
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