Tension and Tribute: A Charged Autumn Session in Jammu & Kashmir Assembly

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's autumn session began with tributes to deceased leaders and an undercurrent of tension over the arrest of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik. Upcoming Rajya Sabha elections and heated debates on statehood and policy will add to the session's intensity.

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly launched its autumn session on Thursday with solemn tributes to leaders who passed away recently. Among the commemorated figures was former J-K governor Satya Pal Malik, who died on August 5.

Controversy brewed before the session began as MLAs from the National Conference (NC) and Congress silently protested the arrest of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik. Malik's detention under the Public Safety Act for allegedly disturbing public order in Doda district was a focal point, with assurances given by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to further discuss the matter.

As the Assembly proceeds, it will tackle pressing issues, including electing four Rajya Sabha members and debates on state restoration and policy changes. With over 450 questions, 13 private members' bills, and more than 50 resolutions on the table, the session promises to be highly consequential.

(With inputs from agencies.)