Srinagar’ — In a recent interview on senior Supreme Court advocate Kapil Sibal’s YouTube channel “Dil Se,” former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik shed light on the controversial dissolution of the state assembly. Malik firmly stated that the decision to dissolve the assembly was solely his, refuting claims that it was influenced by the BJP-government. He revealed that there was a push from the BJP to have Peoples’ Conference leader, Sajad Lone, assume the Chief Ministerial role. However, Malik was hesitant as Lone lacked substantial support, with only six MLAs under his belt. “I sensed there would be major horse-trading if I allowed that,” Malik commented.Acknowledging Mehbooba Mufti’s majority, Malik nonetheless highlighted procedural missteps on her part. He pointed out that Mufti’s claim of having the numbers lacked the formalities required for such a significant political move. “Mehbooba had the majority, but she faltered in the procedure to stake claim for government formation,” Malik asserted. He emphasized that political decisions of such magnitude cannot be made via social media platforms like Twitter, especially when critical stakeholders like Farooq Abdullah were not formally consulted or committed.Further explaining his rationale, Malik emphasized the looming threat of horse-trading as a primary reason for the assembly’s dissolution. “Several parties were keen that the assembly should be dissolved because they feared that their party members would be weaned away,” he said, underscoring the destabilizing effect of potential political maneuvering.In sum, Malik’s revelations provide a deeper understanding of the intricate political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shaped significant decisions affecting the region’s governance.
