SRINAGAR: A legislative session in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly saw several Private Members’ Bills withdrawn on Wednesday, following government assurances to address the concerns raised by members. However, two significant bills, including one proposing amendments to the Reservation Act, were ultimately rejected by a voice vote.
The Chenab Times has learned that the legislative proceedings involved a range of proposals concerning public services, governance, and social welfare. Ajaz Ahmad Jan, a Member of the Legislative Assembly, moved a bill seeking amendments to the Public Men and Public Servants Declaration of Assets and Other Provisions Act, 1983. This bill was subsequently withdrawn after the government provided assurances regarding its concerns.
Similarly, MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania withdrew his proposed amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Public Services Guarantee Act, 2011. Another bill introduced by Dr. Rameshwar Singh, aiming to amend the Civil Services (Decentralization and Recruitment) Act, 2010, also met a similar fate, being withdrawn after the government’s response.
Arjun Singh Raju, an MLA, had introduced a bill focused on the management and governance of Kashmiri Hindu shrines and religious places. This bill too was withdrawn following assurances from the government.
Responding to the broader discussions on legislative proposals, the Chief Minister assured the House that all issues highlighted by the members would be duly considered, leading to the withdrawal of these bills.
The assembly also deliberated on health-related legislative matters. MLA Abdul Majeed Bhat (Larmi) presented a bill that sought to prohibit private practice by government doctors. In response, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo clarified that private practice during official duty hours is already prohibited under existing regulations. She further informed the House that medical staff remains available round-the-clock in government health institutions to ensure patient care.
Another health-related bill, moved by MLA Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah, proposed a ban on the import of frozen and chilled food items. The minister stated that comprehensive food safety measures are already in place. This includes the operation of functioning testing laboratories and upgraded inspection systems to ensure the quality and safety of food products available to the public.
Discussions also encompassed bills aimed at addressing unemployment. Proposals concerning unemployment allowance and social security for unemployed youth and technocrats were taken up, including those moved by MLAs Mir Saifullah and Mubarak Gul. A separate bill pertaining to compassionate appointments for families affected by militancy was also a subject of discussion.
The session took a decisive turn when MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia and Syed Bashir Ahmad Veeri pressed their respective bills for introduction. These included proposals concerning evacuee property rights and amendments to the Reservation Act, 2004. Despite their efforts, both of these bills were ultimately rejected by the Assembly through a voice vote, marking a significant setback for these particular legislative initiatives.
The Chenab Times News Desk