Uproar in Jammu and Kashmir assembly over Waqf Bill, unemployment

The Jammu and Kashmir assembly witnessed a stormy session on Wednesday as lawmakers from several parties clashed over the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the rejection of a motion to discuss unemployment. The uproar forced the Speaker to adjourn the House until 1 pm.

Tensions flared early in the day when National Conference (NC) MLAs demanded a debate on the Waqf Bill. The Speaker declined to entertain the demand, stating that the matter was sub-judice.

However, NC members protested the Speaker's decision, claiming their voices were being suppressed on an issue of significance to the Muslim community. “The Waqf Act affects the Muslim community directly. Refusing to allow a discussion is unjust,” said NC legislator Nazir Gurezi.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members grew agitated after their motion to discuss unemployment was also dismissed. They entered the well of the House, shouting slogans such as “Stop this drama,” and staged a sit-in. BJP members accused NC legislators of creating unnecessary disruption.

J&K People's Conference leader Sajad Lone also criticised the Speaker’s handling of the session.

He said they had asked the Speaker to step aside temporarily and allow Mubarak Gul to preside. “We also moved a no-confidence motion. If the Speaker does not step aside, the motion should be put to vote,” Lone said. “If the NC wants a debate on the Waqf Bill, let it happen.”

Outside the assembly floor, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Mehraj Malik alleged he was physically assaulted by BJP workers and some PDP members. He claimed the police enabled the assault by allowing BJP supporters into a restricted area.

“I was attacked inside the assembly complex while police stood by. BJP workers, along with PDP elements, were involved. This is a serious threat to democracy,” said Malik, visibly shaken.

The session descended into further chaos as legislators exchanged verbal and physical blows. While the NC continued to push for a discussion on the Waqf Bill, the BJP maintained that unemployment was the more pressing issue, accusing the opposition of trying to distract from it.

With no resolution in sight, the Speaker adjourned proceedings and appealed for calm. However, the deadlock continues to overshadow the ongoing assembly session.

India