AAP MLA alleges assault by BJP lawmakers as Waqf Bill sparks physical confrontation; marshals forced to intervene
Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, (DD):The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly descended into complete chaos today as a heated debate over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill erupted into a physical altercation between legislators, forcing an abrupt suspension of the session.
The uproar took a dramatic turn when AAP MLA Mehraj Malik accused multiple BJP members of physically assaulting him during a fierce verbal exchange over the controversial legislation. What began as shouting and sloganeering soon devolved into shoving and scuffles on the floor of the House.
Marshals had to step in to separate the clashing lawmakers as the situation spiraled out of control, bringing the Assembly proceedings to a standstill.
Earlier, opposition parties had moved an adjournment motion demanding a debate on the Waqf Amendment, which the Speaker rejected—further fueling tempers across the aisle. BJP legislators, in turn, staged a counter-protest, accusing the opposition of politicizing much-needed reforms.
The Waqf Amendment Bill, passed by Parliament in 2023, has been a source of friction in Jammu and Kashmir, with opposition parties arguing it undermines community rights and local religious autonomy. The ruling BJP maintains the bill is necessary for transparency and better governance of Waqf properties.
No official word has been issued yet on possible disciplinary action, though sources indicate that the Speaker’s office may review footage of the confrontation before deciding on the next steps(DD)