SRINAGAR, April 1: In a rare display of cross-party solidarity, members of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly united to protest the consistent absence of senior government officers from official proceedings. The issue culminated with Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather taking the significant step of bringing the matter to the attention of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the concern was initially voiced by Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, a legislator from the National Conference, towards the conclusion of the Question Hour. His observation of empty chairs in the officers’ gallery resonated with members from both the ruling coalition and the opposition, many of whom rose from their seats to express their displeasure.
The Speaker acknowledged the members’ grievances and assured them that the House had registered their concerns. He emphasized the critical importance of the presence of relevant departmental officers during discussions pertaining to their portfolios. “It is neither reasonable nor feasible for the entire Secretariat to be present here, given space constraints. However, the chief minister must ensure that the officers concerned are present when such questions are taken up, and that they take proper notes and address members’ concerns to their satisfaction,” Rather stated, addressing the assembly.
Gurezi, a seasoned member with 22 years of legislative experience, remarked that he had never witnessed the Assembly being disregarded in such a manner. He contrasted the current situation with past practices where Chief Secretaries and Commissioner Secretaries regularly attended proceedings, demonstrating respect for the Assembly’s dignity. He urged the Chief Minister to take corrective action against officials who consistently failed to attend, asserting that the House is supreme and all officials must be held accountable for their presence and participation.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Sham Lal Sharma echoed the sentiment, describing the absence of officers as an improper practice. Sharma suggested that the Chief Minister should address the issue and proposed that the Speaker’s office should issue a formal notice to the Chief Secretary, seeking an explanation for the recurring absences. He further suggested that if the administrative secretary of a department with scheduled business fails to be present, the proceedings for that item should be deferred or potentially dropped.
The collective expression of disapproval from the assembly members underscores a significant demand for greater accountability and respect for the legislative process within the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The Speaker’s intervention is expected to prompt a response from the Chief Minister’s office regarding the attendance of government officials during Assembly sessions.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
