J&K speaker dismisses BJP’s resignation demand: ‘file a no-confidence motion’

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather rejected the BJP’s demand for his resignation on Thursday. The BJP had called for his resignation following a resolution passed in the House seeking the restoration of Article 370. Rather responded by suggesting the opposition party file a no-confidence motion if they lacked faith in his leadership.

He emphasized that the Speaker had limited powers and could not undo a resolution passed by the House. “Only the House can undo what it has passed,” he explained. Rather pointed out that his role was to preside, count votes, and make decisions based on facts presented to him.

On the resignation demand, he urged the BJP to follow proper procedure. “Shouting slogans won’t work. If they don’t trust me, they should bring a no-confidence motion,” he said. He further added that if the motion passed, he would resign voluntarily. However, he doubted the BJP would pursue it and would continue raising slogans instead.

Rather also criticized the BJP’s behavior, accusing the party’s MLAs of indulging in “cheap sloganeering.” He reminded them that as the ruling party at the Centre, they should set a better example. The Speaker also defended the decision to marshal out BJP MLAs during Thursday’s session, stating that marshals were instructed to prevent anyone from entering the Well of the House.

He concluded by asserting that every MLA should “lead by example” and maintain decorum, as their actions reflected on the Assembly and the people they represented.