LoP Sunil Sharma expresses concern over ‘pro-Pak’ remarks in Assembly

Expressing his dissatisfaction over recent discussions in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Leader of Opposition (LoP) and BJP leader Sunil Sharma has urged Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to exercise his constitutional authority and ensure that discussions in the Assembly adhere strictly to parliamentary conventions and established precedents.

In a letter to the Speaker, Sharma expressed deep concern over certain remarks made on the floor of the House. “It has been observed that discussions within the Assembly are increasingly veering towards subjects such as engaging in talks with Pakistan, comparing the development situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (POJK) with that of our Union Territory, and, in some instances, even making remarks that could be construed as glorifying Pakistan,” he stated.

Sharma noted that such statements “not only deviate from the core function of this Assembly—addressing the concerns and aspirations of our people—but also pose a serious challenge to the sovereignty, integrity, and security of our nation.”

“These narratives are detrimental to the broader interests of Jammu & Kashmir and the country at large, and they risk misleading public sentiment,” he added.

As the guardian and custodian of the dignity and decorum of the Legislative Assembly, the Speaker must “take appropriate action” under the relevant provisions of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly to ensure that discussions undermining national interests are curtailed, Sharma urged.

According to the BJP leader, while candid and patriotic statements made in the interest of the nation are being expunged from the records, certain narratives that favour or glorify Pakistan are being allowed to remain.

“This selective approach to parliamentary proceedings not only distorts the true spirit of deliberation but also undermines the sanctity of this House,” he said. He further stressed that “any remarks or discussions that reference Pakistan in a manner that compromises our national interests should be immediately expunged from the official records of the Assembly proceedings.”

Sharma emphasised that the Legislative Assembly should serve as a platform for constructive dialogue on governance, development, and public welfare, rather than as a stage for advancing narratives that could harm national unity.

“I urge you to exercise your constitutional authority and ensure that such discussions are strictly regulated in accordance with parliamentary conventions and established precedents,” he wrote. “I trust in your wisdom and commitment to upholding the dignity of this House and safeguarding the interests of the nation.”