Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu,(DD): The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly witnessed intense protests on Monday as opposition MLAs demanded a discussion on the killing of civilians in Billawar, Kathua, and a controversial fashion show in Gulmarg.
As the Question Hour commenced, National Conference (NC) and Congress legislators stood up, pressing for a debate on the Billawar incident. Amid the uproar, MLA Bani Dr. Rameshwar Singh—who was assaulted on Saturday night in Billawar—attempted to storm into the Well of the House but was stopped by Marshals.
Despite repeated appeals from the Speaker to maintain order, NC legislators remained steadfast in their protests. Meanwhile, MLA Kupwara Mir Muhammad Fayaz demanded strict action against the organizers of the fashion show, calling it “obscene” and against local cultural values.
In response, the Speaker ruled out discussions on both matters, citing legal and procedural constraints. He referred to Section 32 of the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act-2019, which places police and public order under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor, stating that the LG had already ordered an inquiry into the Billawar killings.
Regarding the fashion show, the Speaker clarified that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had initiated an inquiry, making it ineligible for discussion in the House.
The Speaker, however, condemned the assault on MLA Dr. Rameshwar Singh and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.(DD)
