In a dramatic turn of events, the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly session was suspended for the second day in a row after intense protests erupted among members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in response to a resolution passed by the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC). The resolution, introduced by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Surinder Kumar Choudhary and seconded by Hon’ble Minister Ms. Sakina Masood Itoo, calls for the reinstatement of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and constitutional guarantees. By advocating for dialogue between the Government of India and local elected representatives, the NC aims to secure these guarantees to safeguard the cultural, economic, and employment rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. However, this proposal has sparked a backlash from the BJP, creating a rift in the Assembly and leading to an unexpected political showdown.
A Call for Local Rights, Not Separatism
The resolution presented by the NC highlights the importance of prioritizing land ownership, jobs, and other vital opportunities for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. NC leaders assert that this move is neither a demand against India nor Indians. As one NC leader emphasized, the goal is to protect the unique identity and socio-economic interests of Jammu and Kashmir’s native population without compromising the region’s place within the Indian Union.
“We are here for our people,” Mr. Choudhary said, reiterating the focus on local rights. “Land and jobs in Jammu and Kashmir should be reserved for our native population. This resolution reflects our commitment to their welfare. It is not an anti-national stance—it is a call for securing our region’s economic future and safeguarding local employment opportunities.”
In response to BJP’s protests, NC leaders have asserted that their resolution aims to reinforce Jammu and Kashmir’s position within India by ensuring that the legitimate aspirations of its people are acknowledged and addressed. “This is not Kashmir vs. Jammu,” said one NC spokesperson. “It’s about making sure that our young people, families, and communities have the security and resources they need. It is for employment, security, and economic growth, which any responsible government should prioritize for its people.”
BJP’s Protests: A Publicity Stunt?
As the Assembly session resumed on its second day, BJP legislators disrupted proceedings soon after they began, leading to an early suspension of the session at 11 a.m. BJP leaders argued that the NC’s resolution could polarize the region, but NC leaders and supporters have countered that these protests are merely a “publicity stunt,” designed to score political points rather than address substantive issues. “This is not a matter of dividing Jammu and Kashmir; it is about uniting us for the benefit of our people,” said an NC spokesperson.
The reaction has been mixed among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Some view the BJP’s protests as an attempt to divert attention away from real concerns around job security, land rights, and economic opportunities. A local shopkeeper remarked, “The NC has shown where their heart is—they are with us, with Kashmiris. Let the BJP respond in kind if they want to gain our trust, instead of stirring up drama over a matter that should concern every one of us here.”
NC’s Masterstroke, Opposition Left Isolated
The NC’s resolution is seen as a political masterstroke, not just within the Assembly but also beyond, affecting the opposition’s narrative. For months, opposition parties like the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and People’s Conference (PC) have criticized the NC, accusing them of tacitly aligning with the BJP. However, the NC’s decision to introduce this resolution has left these opposition parties scrambling to respond, as they failed to take any similar action themselves. The resolution has isolated PDP and PC, both of which had used social media and other platforms to claim that NC was neglecting Jammu and Kashmir’s special status for political convenience.
Reyaz Khan, an NC leader, emphasized the historical significance of this moment, calling it a landmark day that will be remembered. “This day will be written in golden words in history,” he said, expressing pride in his party’s courage to take a stand that resonates deeply with the people. Another passerby outside the Assembly building commented, “They [NC] have connected with our emotions. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about our identity, and they have shown they understand that.”
Resonating with Public Sentiment
The impact of the NC’s resolution has gone beyond the Assembly walls. Conversations among residents reveal a profound appreciation for what they see as a stance aligned with their collective interests. A shopkeeper in Srinagar shared his view: “We have shown our sentiment. The NC has made it clear which side they’re on. Now, it’s up to the central government to acknowledge that we stand by our rights and our heritage. Let them show that they’re with us, with Kashmiris, and not against the very people they govern.”
The move has particularly struck a chord with young Kashmiris who feel that the lack of regional protections has limited their access to jobs and resources. “Sentiments are more important than anything,” a university student said. “We are not asking to break away from India. We just want the respect and opportunities we deserve as part of it.”
BJP Faces Fallout from Political Risks
For the BJP, NC’s resolution poses a complex challenge. The resolution, unexpected in the course of Assembly business, represents a sharp departure from BJP’s vision of Jammu and Kashmir, creating what some have called a “murder of BJP’s political standing” in the region. The Assembly’s support for a locally focused agenda challenges the BJP’s nationalistic stance and forces them into a defensive posture.
While BJP leaders claim that the NC’s resolution risks dividing the state, many view this reaction as out of touch with the local reality. “This is about giving Kashmiris a chance to thrive within India,” an NC supporter commented. “There’s no threat to unity. It’s only a threat to those who refuse to acknowledge the needs of the people here.”
Public sentiment toward the BJP’s response has been lukewarm, with many residents seeing the party’s protests as an overreaction. As one resident put it, “Jitnay mounh, utni baatein (as many mouths, as many opinions), but this was NC’s day, and they have captured the hearts of Kashmiris. If the BJP is serious about serving the people, they should take this resolution as an opportunity to show they are listening to the voices here, not ignoring them.”
A Turning Point for J&K
The resolution passed by the NC marks a critical moment for Jammu and Kashmir. With their call for the restoration of special status and focus on local rights, the NC has positioned itself as a champion of Kashmir’s unique identity and future. While reactions may vary across the region, one thing is clear: this day has set a new precedent, not only in J&K’s legislative history but in the political landscape of the entire region.
As the Assembly reconvenes in the coming days, all eyes will be on the BJP’s next move. Will they continue their protests, or will they recognize the public sentiment and consider a more constructive approach? For now, the NC has the momentum, and they’ve sent a powerful message: the interests of Jammu and Kashmir’s people will not be ignored. The impact of this resolution will likely resonate well beyond the Assembly, influencing public opinion and political alliances for years to come.
