Fri Nov 08 15:14:04 UTC 2024: ## J&K Assembly Plunges into Chaos over Article 370 Resolution

**Srinagar, November 8, 2024:** The Jammu and Kashmir assembly descended into chaos for the third consecutive day on Friday as a resolution seeking the restoration of Article 370 sparked intense clashes between the ruling National Conference and the opposition BJP.

The turmoil began when Awami Ittehad Party MLA Sheikh Khursheed, brother of Engineer Rashid, displayed a banner supporting the restoration of Article 370, prompting BJP MLAs to erupt in slogans and engage in physical altercations.

Several BJP MLAs stormed the well of the House, leading to a heated confrontation that resulted in them being marshalled out by the assembly speaker, Abdul Rahim Rather.

Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma condemned the events, calling it “the darkest day in J&K’s democracy” and accusing the Speaker of acting as the “speaker of the National Conference” instead of the House. He alleged that the Speaker was attempting to suppress the opposition’s voice.

Sharma also criticized the resolution itself, stating that “this assembly is not bigger than the Parliament and the Supreme Court” and that there should be no debate on the issue of Article 370.

In response to the BJP MLAs being ejected from the House, Sharma declared that the opposition would hold a parallel assembly outside to protest the Speaker’s actions.

The ongoing turmoil stems from a resolution introduced by the PDP on November 6, demanding the restoration of Article 370 and Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. While the resolution was passed on Wednesday by a voice vote with all parties barring the BJP in support, the BJP continues to strongly oppose it.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has downplayed the resolution, stating it holds no real significance and was introduced merely for cameras. He emphasized that if there had been genuine intention behind the resolution, it should have been discussed with the National Conference.

The first session of the new Jammu and Kashmir Assembly is scheduled to conclude today.

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