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Tensions Flare in J&K Assembly as MLA Displays Article 370 Banner
A heated session unfolded in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday as Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, MLA from Langate and brother of jailed Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rashid, displayed a banner calling for the restoration of Article 370 and the release of political prisoners.
The banner read, “We demand restoration of Article 370 and 35A. Release of political prisoners,” sparking a contentious reaction in the House.
Tensions Rise as Lawmakers Clash
Sheikh’s actions led to objections from Sunil Sharma, Leader of the Opposition and a senior BJP leader, who, along with other BJP members, attempted to snatch the banner. A physical altercation ensued as the Speaker ordered Sheikh to take his seat, while marshals intervened to de-escalate the situation. People’s Democratic Party (PDP) MLA from Pulwama, Waheed Para, stepped in to assist Sheikh amid the chaos.
Opposition Condemns Abrogation of Article 370
The incident prompted opposition MLAs, including People’s Conference leader Sajad Lone, to pass a resolution condemning the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A. The resolution read, “This House strongly condemns the unconstitutional and unilateral abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A… stripping Jammu & Kashmir of its special status and statehood.” The opposition leaders demanded that the government immediately restore Articles 370 and 35A to their original form and revoke changes introduced by the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.
The resolution emphasized the need to respect Jammu & Kashmir’s unique identity and political autonomy, urging the Government of India to honor the constitutional guarantees initially provided to the region.
