Tensions flared in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly as a heated scuffle broke out on Wednesday following controversial remarks by AAP MLA Mehraj Malik about Hindus. The situation escalated quickly, leading to multiple lawmakers being marshalled out of the House by security officials.
According to reports, Malik allegedly stated that Hindus wear a ’tilak’ but commit sins, a comment that triggered sharp reactions, particularly from BJP MLAs. BJP leader Vikram Randhawa, present during the uproar, strongly condemned the statement.
“Today, he has insulted Hindus. He claimed Hindus wear a tilak and steal, drink alcohol, and sin. We will not let this go unanswered,” Randhawa said.
The atmosphere further deteriorated when Mehraj Malik got into a verbal spat with PDP MLA Waheed Parra, accusing him of being a “traitor” and alleging his involvement with the mafia.
“You have brought in the mafia. Who are these people standing outside?” Malik shouted.
Outside the Assembly, Malik told reporters that he was attacked by BJP workers, adding, “He [Parra] says I have no manners. Will he teach me how to behave?”
Amid the ruckus, Awami Ittehad Party MLA Salman Khursheed alleged that the NC-led government was deliberately trying to disrupt proceedings.
“They create chaos for a few hours and then adjourn the House. We will demand a five-day extension to recover the lost business,” he said.
Khursheed also took aim at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, questioning his absence during the past three days of Assembly proceedings.
“Where is the leader of the House? Why hasn’t he attended the session?” he asked.
This marks the third consecutive day of unrest in the Assembly. Earlier sessions were also marred by protests over the Waqf Amendment Act, with opposition MLAs demanding an adjournment motion to debate the issue. However, the Speaker refused, citing the Act is under judicial review.
Previous days saw PDP MLA Waheed Parra being forcibly removed after trying to reach the well of the House, and People’s Conference chief Sajjad Lone clashing with National Conference MLAs over the lack of discussion.
As the turmoil continues, questions loom over the future of the ongoing session and whether meaningful legislative business will be able to resume.