Srinagar: As the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly convenes for its fifth session on February 2, the post of Deputy Speaker continues to remain vacant, raising questions over the delay by the National Conference-led government in filling a key statutory position in the House.
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly is mandated under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 to elect both a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker “as soon as may be.” While NC leader Abdul Rahim Rather was unanimously elected Speaker on November 4, 2023 during the first session of the Assembly, the Deputy Speaker’s chair has remained unfilled since then.
As per the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the J&K Legislative Assembly, the election of the Deputy Speaker is to be held on a date fixed by the Speaker after a motion proposing a candidate’s name is moved in the House. However, the process has to be initiated by the government, which has so far not taken steps to fill the position.
Sources said that political hesitation on both sides of the aisle has contributed to the delay. While the National Conference has not shown willingness to offer the post to the Bharatiya Janata Party, the BJP has also not formally staked a claim to the position.
Repeated attempts to seek a response from the National Conference remained unsuccessful, as party chief whip Mubarak Gul did not respond to calls.
Meanwhile, BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul said the responsibility to initiate the election lies with the government.
“It is the government that has to set the ball rolling for the election of the Deputy Speaker. It is not necessary that they choose our MLA. They can even elect one of their own members,” Koul said.
The Deputy Speaker plays a crucial role in presiding over House proceedings in the absence of the Speaker and is considered vital for smooth legislative functioning. With the Assembly entering another session without filling the post, questions continue to be raised over the delay in complying with statutory requirements. (KNO)
