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The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly erupted in chaos this morning, marked by a heated exchange between members of the ruling National Conference-Congress alliance and the opposition BJP, over a resolution seeking the restoration of Article 370, which granted special status to the region before its abrogation in 2019. The resolution, passed yesterday without any debate, expressed concern over the unilateral removal of Article 370 and called upon the Centre to initiate dialogue with elected representatives for its restoration.
The BJP, steadfast in its opposition to the resolution, staged a strong protest, viewing it as an attempt to undermine the government's decision to revoke Article 370. The clash escalated when BJP MLAs confronted Sheikh Khurshid, a Langate MLA, who had entered the well of the House holding a banner demanding the restoration of Article 370, Article 35A, and the release of political prisoners. The BJP members, in a heated reaction, attempted to seize the banner, leading to a physical altercation involving several MLAs, including Sajad Lone, the leader of the People's Conference.
The incident further fueled the tensions, highlighting the deep political divide over the issue of Article 370. Sajad Lone, known for his outspoken views and often critical of the National Conference, took a surprising stance by intervening to defend Khursheed, condemning the attack and criticizing the National Conference for failing to support their own member. This incident showcased a complex web of alliances and rivalries within Kashmiri politics, where ideological differences are often blurred by regional loyalties and personal connections.
The resolution, passed yesterday, was backed by the National Conference, PDP, and the People's Conference, highlighting a united stance among several political parties on the issue of restoring Article 370. This unanimous sentiment reflects the broader public opinion within Jammu and Kashmir, where the revocation of Article 370 continues to be a sensitive issue, generating strong emotions and prompting calls for its restoration. The BJP, however, remains resolute in its stance, advocating for the integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Union, disregarding the aspirations of the region's populace for autonomy and self-governance.
The incident in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly underscores the ongoing political battle surrounding the status of Article 370. While the resolution serves as a symbolic demand for its restoration, it remains unclear whether the Centre will respond to the call for dialogue or whether the BJP, determined to maintain its position, will concede to any compromises. The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir remains highly polarized, with the future of Article 370 still hanging in the balance, awaiting a decisive outcome.
Source: "As A Kashmiri...": Sajad Lone Joins Fight In House To Shield Kashmir MLA