Srinagar, Sept 29 (JKNS): As soon as the sixth day of proceedings of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly began on Tuesday, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma asked Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to step down, alleging that the Speaker allowed the statehood resolution to be taken up despite objections raised by the Law Department and Chief Secretary.
Speaking in the Assembly, as per news agency JKNS, Sharma termed the resolution “unconstitutional” and questioned the Speaker’s decision to proceed with it despite the reservations communicated by the officials.
Sharma said the BJP was in favour of restoration of statehood but objected to the contents and references included in the resolution.
He also maintained that the Speaker should not continue in the chair in view of the motion moved by BJP legislators seeking his removal.
Responding to Sharma, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather said his credibility had been questioned and maintained that there was a procedure to deal with the issue.
“You have questioned my credibility. There is a procedure for it, but don’t teach me law,” the Speaker said.
The BJP had submitted a motion against the Speaker, with 29 legislators supporting it, while the Speaker said the matter would be dealt with according to the procedure prescribed under the Assembly rules. (JKNS)