• Bill Seeking Ban on Alcohol in J&K to be Introduced in Assembly
  • PDP MLA from Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, has submitted a Private Member’s Bill seeking a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • The bill, set to be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the J&K Assembly, proposes prohibition on the advertisement, sale, purchase, consumption, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in the Union Territory.
  • Mir warned that the rising alcohol consumption poses a serious threat to society, stressing the need for strict legislation to curb the trend. The bill also proposes harsh penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations.
sajad lone

Sajad Lone Leads Opposition Move to Oust J&K Assembly Speaker Over ‘Undemocratic Conduct’

Published on April 8, 2025

Advertisement

Srinagar | April 8, 2025:
In a major political development, Sajad Lone, senior legislator from Handwara and chairman of the Jammu & Kashmir People’s Conference, has invoked Rule 215(A) of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business to initiate a formal resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly.

The resolution—backed by several Kashmir-based MLAs—was submitted to the Secretary of the Assembly and cites “undemocratic conduct” by the Speaker, particularly regarding his refusal to allow debate on the Waqf Amendment Bill and an adjournment motion raised by opposition members.

“Such conduct undermines the democratic principles and procedures governing this esteemed institution,” the resolution reads.

It points out that the Speaker’s repeated denial to entertain valid motions by opposition members reflects partisan behavior and a lack of neutrality expected from the Chair.

Mir Mohammad Fayaz (MLA Kupwara) and Rafiq Ahmad Khan (MLA Tral) have joined Lone in this move, further strengthening the opposition’s collective stand. The resolution signals growing unrest within the legislative system, especially in the wake of widespread criticism over how the Waqf Amendment issue has been handled.

The move also comes shortly after PDP and JKPC filed a no-confidence motion against the Speaker, following his rejection of discussion on a matter they say affects religious autonomy in the Muslim-majority region.

Background:

The Speaker had earlier dismissed two adjournment motions on the Waqf Bill citing sub-judice status, invoking Rule 58(vii), which prohibits debate on matters currently under judicial consideration. However, the opposition claims this is a delaying tactic and highlights that other state assemblies like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have already debated and passed resolutions against the Bill.

Current Situation:

The Speaker is yet to issue an official response to the Rule 215(A) motion. With mounting pressure from opposition benches, the coming days may see intensified political confrontation within the House.

Advertisement
E-Paper

No epapers found.

Kashmir Weather
KASHMIR WEATHER
Breaking News
  • Bill Seeking Ban on Alcohol in J&K to be Introduced in Assembly
  • PDP MLA from Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmad Mir, has submitted a Private Member’s Bill seeking a complete ban on liquor in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • The bill, set to be introduced in the upcoming budget session of the J&K Assembly, proposes prohibition on the advertisement, sale, purchase, consumption, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in the Union Territory.
  • Mir warned that the rising alcohol consumption poses a serious threat to society, stressing the need for strict legislation to curb the trend. The bill also proposes harsh penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for violations.