Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party lawmaker Waheed ur Rehman Para introduced a resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly advocating the reinstatement of Article 370, which previously granted special autonomy to the region.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the resolution, presented by Para, who represents Pulwama, faced immediate opposition from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members who protested against the proposal. This legislative effort occurred alongside the election of National Conference leader Abdul Rahim Rather as the Assembly’s first Speaker.

In a statement, Peoples Democratic Party Chief Mehbooba Mufti praised Para for his advocacy concerning Kashmir’s distinctive status. Conversely, Puppet Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the resolution, asserting that such decisions regarding Article 370 cannot be unilaterally determined by any single member. He described the resolution as political and urged the Speaker to adjourn the session in light of increasing tensions.

Amid the proceedings, BJP legislators, led by Sham Lal Sharma, demanded the suspension of Para, while National Conference MLA Shabir Kullay criticized the disruption caused by the BJP. The assembly’s first session is scheduled to conclude on November 8.