Jammu: Leader of Opposition (LoP), Sunil Sharma expressing concern over “glorification” of Pakistan in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, have dashed a two-page letter to the Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather urging him to exercise his constitutional authority and ensure that such discussions are strictly regulated in accordance with parliamentary conventions and established precedents.
Sharma as per the letter, have said that in his capacity as the Leader of Opposition, he is deeply concerned about certain remarks being made on the floor of the august House.
“It has been observed that discussions within the Assembly are increasingly veering towards subjects such as engaging in talks with Pakistan, comparing the development situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) with that of our Union Territory, and, in some instances, even making remarks that could be construed as glorifying Pakistan,” LoP said in a letter.
He stated that such statements not only deviate from the core function of the Assembly-addressing the concerns and aspirations of people but also pose a serious challenge to the sovereignty, integrity, and security of our nation. “These narratives are detrimental to the broader interests of Jammu and Kashmir and the country at large, and they risk misleading public sentiment,” he expressed.
Sharma expressed further, “as the guardian and custodian of the dignity and decorum of this Legislative Assembly, I urge you (Speaker) to take appropriate action under the relevant provisions of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly to ensure that discussions that undermine national interests are curtailed.”
Rule 418 of the Rules of Procedure states that the Speaker has the authority to expunge any words or remarks from the Assembly’s official records if they are deemed unparliamentary, inflammatory, or prejudicial to national integrity, he added and said, “further, Rule 387 reference with practices and conventions mandate that discussions should be confined to matters of public interest and should not relate to any subject that may disturb the unity and sovereignty of the country.”
“Regrettably, it has come to my notice that while candid and patriotic statements made in the interest of the nation are being expunged from the records, certain narratives that favour or glorify Pakistan are being allowed to remain on record,” stated the LoP adding, “This selective approach to parliamentary proceedings not only distorts the true spirit of deliberation but also undermines the sanctity of this House.”
“Therefore, I request that any remarks or discussions that reference Pakistan in a manner that compromises our national interests be immediately expunged from the official records of the Assembly proceedings,” the BJP leader said.
He mentioned in the letter that the Legislative Assembly is meant to serve as a platform for constructive dialogue on governance, development, and public welfare, not as a stage for advancing narratives that could harm our national unity, adding, “I urge you to exercise your constitutional authority and ensure that such discussions are strictly regulated in accordance with parliamentary conventions and established precedents.”
“I trust in your wisdom and commitment to upholding the dignity of this House and safeguarding the interests of the nation,” said the LoP.
UNI
