Srinagar, Nov 28, KNT: People’s Democratic Party legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Para was served a breach of privilege notice by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and asked to respond within seven days over remarks made during the House proceedings.
The notice was issued by the Assembly Secretariat under instructions from Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather following a complaint by National Conference legislator Nazir Ahmad Khan Gurezi.
The action stems from Parra’s speech on the motion of thanks on the Lieutenant Governor’s address during the inaugural Assembly session, where he allegedly made remarks against the NC legislator.
The development is significant as breach of privilege proceedings relate to the conduct of members inside the House and can lead to further action depending on the response submitted.
According to the notice, the complaint stated that Parra had “levelled allegations and used derogatory remarks” against Gurezi during his speech on November 8, 2024.
The Assembly Secretariat said the matter was placed before the Speaker, who sought Parra’s comments before proceeding further.
Parra has been asked to submit his response within seven days of receiving the notice.
Reacting to the development, Parra termed the move an attempt to suppress opposition voices.
“Attempt to silence us and choke our voices. It won’t stop us. We will continue to talk about the aspirations of people,” he said, adding that he would respond within the stipulated time.
The inaugural session of the Assembly witnessed repeated disruptions and sharp exchanges between treasury benches and opposition members.
The tensions were particularly visible on the final day of the session, when arguments broke out involving PDP legislators and other opposition members, including Sajjad Lone.
The session also saw opposition members raising multiple issues in the absence of Bharatiya Janata Party legislators on the last day. [KNT]
