Speaker Allows Legislators to Raise Issues Beyond Zero Hour as Special Case
SRINAGAR: Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather today permitted legislators to raise pressing public issues beyond the Zero Hour, calling it a special case given the significance of the matters highlighted by the members.
“Today, I am allowing members to raise certain important issues beyond the Zero Hour. This is a one-time exception and shall not set a precedent for future proceedings,” the Speaker clarified while permitting MLAs to speak on several public concerns, including the plight of flood victims from the September 2025 calamity.
The Speaker urged members to use the limited time of the House judiciously and to raise issues in a constructive and respectful manner.
Earlier, the Speaker had turned down an adjournment motion by MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta seeking a discussion on the post-flood situation in Jammu and Kashmir, citing procedural limitations. He said Rule 58 of the House Rules bars reconsideration of an adjournment motion once rejected in the same session.
However, the Speaker expressed solidarity with the flood-affected families, stating that their grievances and rehabilitation must be addressed on priority within the House.
Initiating the debate, MLA Pawan Kumar Gupta highlighted the severe destruction caused by the recent floods in the Jammu division, including in his constituency. He said houses, schools, and public infrastructure had suffered extensive damage and that relief operations were inadequate and delayed.
The session concluded with a collective resolve among members to address the flood victims’ concerns and to ensure timely restoration and rehabilitation across affected regions.
MLA Tral Rafiq Ahmad Naik called for permanent restoration of damaged infrastructure and upgradation of schools in his area.
MLA Kathua Rajeev Jasrotia sought a comprehensive plan to compensate flood-affected families and to restore defunct public services.
MLA Beerwah Dr Shafi Ahmad Wani assured that the Omar Abdullah government was committed to its promises and would formulate an effective disaster management plan to enhance preparedness for future calamities.
MLA Rajouri Iftikhar Ahmed raised concerns about the shifting of the District Hospital, vacancies at Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, and the Katra Ropeway project.
MLA Banihal Sajad Shaheen lauded Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for restoring the Darbar Move, describing it as a symbol of unity and regional integration.
MLA Karnah Javed Ahmed Mirchal demanded resumption of helicopter services for transporting mortal remains during winters when road connectivity is disrupted.
MLA Basohli Darshan Kumar expressed concern over inadequate healthcare facilities and urged posting of specialist doctors.
MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami stressed providing sufficient compensation to the farming community and other affected sections.
MLA Thannamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan pressed for speedy disbursal of flood compensation in a transparent manner.
MLA Wagoora-Kreeri Irfan Hafiz Lone demanded upgradation of health and civic facilities in his constituency.
MLA Surankote Choudhary Mohammad Akram urged the government to seek a special relief package from the Centre for flood-hit families.
MLA Samba Surjeet Singh Slathia echoed similar concerns, stressing timely financial aid to help victims rebuild their lives.
MLA Billawar Satish Sharma suggested reviewing certain policy aspects to ensure fair rehabilitation of those who lost land to the floods.
MLA Kokernag Zafar Ali Khatana sought reopening of Sinthan Top to revive tourism and highlighted livestock losses among tribal communities that went unaddressed.
MLA Khan Sahib Saif-ud-Din Bhat demanded reopening of tourist spots to support local livelihoods.
MLA Pulwama Waheed ur Rahman Para called for a review of the media policy, including empanelment and advertisement distribution, to make it more inclusive.
MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone raised concerns over the reservation policy, calling for rationalisation based on population and representation.
MLA Gurez Nazir Ahmad Khan defended the existing policy, stating that SC, ST, and OBC candidates were excelling in competitive exams, showcasing their talent and determination. He also noted the absence of science streams in schools of backward areas, which hinders equal educational opportunities.
MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Beigh underscored the importance of conserving Jammu and Kashmir’s natural resources, urging measures to ensure their sustainable use for the benefit of local communities.
