Fri Nov 08 02:50:00 UTC 2024: ## J&K Assembly Descends into Chaos as Article 370 Debate Heats Up
**Srinagar, November 7, 2024:** The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed a second day of pandemonium on Thursday, with members engaging in a physical altercation following a heated debate over the restoration of Article 370.
The incident occurred after Awami Ittehad Party MLA Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, brother of jailed Baramulla Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rashid, displayed a banner advocating for the return of Article 370. This sparked immediate outrage from the BJP members who tore the banner, leading to a brief suspension of proceedings.
This dramatic incident comes on the heels of a resolution passed on Wednesday demanding the Centre to establish a constitutional mechanism for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. The resolution, brought forward by the INDIA opposition alliance, has triggered fierce debate, with BJP members demanding its rollback.
Adding fuel to the fire, the PDP moved another resolution on Thursday, seeking the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. This resolution has drawn sharp criticism from BJP leader Smriti Irani, who slammed it as being against the Constitution and the Supreme Court’s opinion. She questioned the Congress’s commitment to development and constitutional values, accusing them of supporting terrorism.
The Assembly session, which commenced on Monday after a six-year gap, has been marred by chaotic scenes since its beginning. On the first day, a brawl erupted after a PDP MLA demanded the reinstatement of Article 370.
The resolution passed on Wednesday has been sent to the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary for further action. The ongoing debate over Article 370, revoked in 2019, continues to be a contentious issue in the region.
First Piper 