Jammu: A chaotic scene unfolded in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly as members voiced their discontent over the Speaker’s decision to block a debate on the contentious Waqf Amendment Act. The incident occurred during the ongoing budget session of the Assembly.

According to reports from Kashmir Media Service, a motion was put forth to delay the question hour and initiate a discussion on the disputed Waqf Amendment Bill. This proposal was met with strong opposition from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leading to the Speaker, Abdul Rahim Rather, dismissing the motion. The decision incited a significant uproar among members of the National Conference, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and Congress.

The dissenting members displayed their frustration by tearing copies of the law and vocally demanding a discussion. Their protests forced the Speaker to adjourn the session twice due to the disruptions.

This marks the first time during the current budget session that proceedings have been halted in the IIOJK Assembly.

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti took to social media platform X to express her dismay regarding the Speaker’s actions. Criticizing the government’s position, she remarked, “It’s profoundly disappointing that the Speaker of the IIOJK Assembly has rejected the motion on the Waqf Bill.”

Mufti further commented on the government’s approach, suggesting it has succumbed to BJP’s agenda while failing to address the concerns of the region’s Muslim majority. She highlighted the contrasting stance of Tamil Nadu’s government, which opposes the Waqf Bill, suggesting that the National Conference could take a cue from their stance.

The incident underscores the ongoing tensions within the Assembly and highlights the contentious nature of the Waqf Amendment Act in the region.