Speaker promises action against news portal over video of MLA in House

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Friday assured the House that action would be taken against a news portal after legislators protested over a video, which alleged that a MLA was browsing social media during Assembly proceedings.

“I assure the House that appropriate action will be taken against the defaulter,” the Speaker said.

The assurance came after MLA Javid Mirchal raised the issue at the start of the session, clarifying that the video circulated on social media was misleading and taken out of context.

“The video was shared out of context. I couldn’t sleep the entire night due to the harassment I faced online. I want strict action against those who tried to tarnish my reputation,” Mirchal said.

Several members supported Mirchal’s demand, calling for firm action against the news outlet for spreading misinformation and undermining the dignity of the House.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary joined the discussion, urging action against the portal responsible for circulating the misleading video. He appealed to the media fraternity to act responsibly and ensure factual reporting, emphasising that press freedom must be exercised with a sense of duty and accountability.

MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan demanded that a privilege motion be moved against the news outlet, stating that attempts to malign a legislator’s image were an affront to the dignity of the House.

MLA Nizam-ud-din Bhat cautioned against irresponsible journalism, describing it as a serious threat to society. He stressed that accuracy, ethics and integrity must form the foundation of responsible media practice.

“Callous and irresponsible media poses a serious threat to society. Facts and ethics must form the foundation of journalism,” Bhat said.

The Speaker reiterated that the matter would be investigated and that necessary action would follow to uphold the sanctity and decorum of the House.