The newly elected Jammu and Kashmir Assembly convened for its first session after six years, marked by heated discussions over Article 370. National Conference leader Abul Rahim Rather was elected as the Speaker. Following his election, PDP leader Waheed Para introduced a resolution opposing the 2019 revocation of Article 370, aiming to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. However, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah dismissed the resolution as a “camera stunt,” stating that a private MLA resolution held little significance without prior discussion with the National Conference.
Abdullah emphasized that the assembly reflects the people’s sentiments, suggesting that the 2019 revocation decision did not align with public opinion in Jammu and Kashmir. In support, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti praised Para’s effort, reinforcing the party’s stance on Article 370 in a post on X.
The National Conference-Congress alliance currently leads the assembly with 49 of the 90 seats, while the BJP has emerged as the main opposition with 29 seats. The first session, set to conclude on November 8, includes an address by the Lieutenant Governor and an obituary tribute to former legislators. The assembly will also debate the Motion of Thanks on the L-G’s address on November 6 and 7.
