The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly faced another day of disruption on Friday, November 8, 2024, as protests erupted over a resolution on restoring the region’s special status. The BJP members, who have opposed the measure, intensified their demonstrations, chanting slogans that accused the opposition of advancing a “Pakistani agenda.”
Third Day of Assembly Disruptions
The tensions have run high in the Assembly for three days now, following the passage of a resolution that calls for the restoration of Article 370, which previously granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir. BJP MLAs have voiced strong objections, arguing that the move undermines national integrity. Their ongoing demonstrations led the Speaker to take disciplinary action, ordering 12 opposition MLAs and independent Langate representative Sheikh Khurshid to be removed from the session.
Opposition Holds Firm on Special Status Demand
Despite the uproar, opposition parties continue to back the resolution, emphasizing the cultural and administrative significance of special status for Jammu and Kashmir. However, BJP lawmakers argue that reintroducing such autonomy is an attempt to destabilize the union territory’s integration with India. Their slogans, including “Pakistani agenda nahi chalega” (No to the Pakistani agenda), reverberated across the Assembly as the protests persisted.
Speaker Takes Action Amid Rising Tensions
The Speaker’s decision to marshal out the opposition members highlights the intensity of the dispute. Both sides remain firm in their stances, with BJP members vowing to oppose any measures that, in their view, could compromise national sovereignty.
As the Assembly proceedings continue to be marred by these confrontations, it remains uncertain how the legislative body will address the contentious issue. The situation underscores the deep political divide on Jammu and Kashmir’s future and reflects broader tensions within the region.