Normalcy returns to Upper House

M Aamir Khan

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, October 7

After ruckus for two days, proceedings of the Legislative Council were conducted smoothly today barring a walkout by Congress members over increase in power tariff.

Soon after question hour began, the Congress demanded a discussion over ‘undue’ increase in power tariff. As Chairman Anayat Ali disallowed a debate and Education Minister Naeem Akhter pointed out that tariff had increased ‘bi-fold’ when the Congress was in power, Opposition members walked out.

Opposition legislators returned after the conclusion of question hour to have a discussion on private members’ resolutions. No unruly scene was witnessed today.

Even though the NC boycotted the session today, member Bashir Veeri said they would return to the House tomorrow after revocation of suspension of two members. “We have moved an adjournment motion over killing of innocents and will be present in the House,” he said.

During discussions on private members’ resolutions, the Council passed the resolution moved by PDP member Yashpal Sharma recommending extension of railway services to Poonch and Rajouri districts.

Congress member GN Monga’s resolution on enhancing Constituency Development Fund from Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 3 crore received support from several PDP and BJP legislators.

Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu said a committee had been formed over the issue and its findings would be discussed in the Budget session.