Three Opposition MLAs move no-confidence motion against Speaker

Three opposition legislators led by People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone on Tuesday presented a no-confidence motion against J&K Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather.

Lone alleged that the Speaker had become an “impediment” in voicing their opinion against the Waqf (Amendment) Act in the Assembly.

In a statement, Lone said, “We have presented a no confidence motion against the Speaker. He has become an impediment in voicing our opinion against the Waqf bill. J&K is the only Muslim province in India. History will hold us in contempt if we do not send a strong message against this bill.”

PDP legislators Fayaz Ahmad Mir from Kupwara and Rafiq Ahmad Naik from Tral are the other two signatories of the letter.

The no confidence motion was moved in accordance with rule 215(A) of the Rules of Procedures and Conduct of Business in the Assembly. “We hereby submit this notice of our intention to move a resolution for the removal of the Speaker of the Assembly,” the notice stated.

It further read, “This decision stems from widespread outrage within the House over the Speaker’s actions, including the rejection of discussions on an adjournment motion and the refusal to entertain a resolution brought forward by opposition parties. Such conduct undermines the democratic principles and procedures governing this esteemed institution, prompting this resolution to address the matter”.

While talking to the media, Sajad Lone urged the National Conference (NC) MLAs to support the motion against the Speaker. “We appeal to NC members to support the motion. If they don’t (support), they will be exposed. Everyone is watching this drama where a NC legislator who is the Speaker of the House doesn’t allow the adjournment motion and other members of the party are protesting against his decision,” Lone said.

J & K