J&K: Opposition moves notice to remove Assembly Speaker

New Delhi, April 8, 2025

The chaos over Waqf Amendment Act continued for the second day in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. On Tuesday, People’s Conference (JKPC) chief Sajad Lone, along with Awami Ittehad Party leader Khursheed Sheikh and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leaders submitted a no-confidence motion against Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather.

“In accordance with Rule 215(A) of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, we hereby submit this notice of our intention to move a resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Assembly.

“This decision stems from widespread outrage within the House over the Speaker’s actions, including the rejection of discussions on the adjournment motions and the refusal to entertain a resolution brought forward by opposition parties. Such conduct undermines the democratic principles and procedures governing this esteemed institution, prompting this resolution to address the matter.” the MLA from Handwara said in a letter addressed to the secretary of the Assembly.

Lone questioned the sincerity of the ruling party, National Conference. The members of NC are also protesting against the Act. “If this isn’t theatre, why is NC not bringing a no-confidence motion against its own Speaker?” he asked.

“This all seems theatrics by the ruling party MLAs. People will lose trust over us if we continue to work like this. Waqf Act is a sensitive and religious issue, the NC is doing drama on this sensitive issue as well. If the NC legislators are unanimous, they should replace the speaker and get a new speaker who will allow the resolution,” Lone said.

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