Jammu, Feb 02 (KINS): Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Monday urged all members to extend their full cooperation for the successful conduct of the Budget session, stressing that while democracy thrives on differing viewpoints, mutual respect, decorum and constructive debate must guide the proceedings of the House.
Addressing members soon after the Lieutenant Governor’s address was laid on the table of the House, the Speaker said the 27-day-long Budget session is of immense importance as it provides legislators a vital platform to raise public issues and seek solutions on behalf of their constituencies. He informed the House that during the first phase of the session, which will continue till February 19, there will be two sittings each day in accordance with Assembly rules, with the House permitted to sit up to 5 pm.
“This House embodies the hopes, aspirations and trust of the people who have elected us. Serving them is not just a privilege but a serious responsibility,” Rather said, urging members to utilise the session meaningfully to highlight people’s concerns.
Emphasising the value of healthy democratic discourse, the Speaker said differences of opinion are natural in a democracy but must be expressed in a dignified and ethical manner. He cautioned members against unnecessary confrontations, reminding them that the proceedings of the House are closely observed by the public. “Every word spoken here is noticed by the people outside. Even a small lapse reflects on all of us,” he said.
Rather underlined that maximum budget-related business should be completed by February 19, as the first part of the session concludes on that date. Assuring members of adequate opportunities to speak, he said every effort would be made to accommodate as many legislators as possible, even though it may not be feasible to give unlimited time to all.
“This is the most important opportunity to place the problems of your constituencies before the government and seek redressal. You will be given sufficient time; how effectively you use it is up to you. What people expect from us are solutions, not disruptions,” the Speaker said, adding that interruptions and disorder inside the House only weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.
Drawing from his long legislative experience since 1977, Rather said noise and disorder do not serve the interests of constituents. He urged members to articulate their views through polite language, decency and adherence to parliamentary ethics. “Holding this session involves public expenditure, and that money belongs to the people. As their representatives, it is our duty to respect both their mandate and their resources,” he said.
The Speaker cautioned that lawmakers should not create any impression that the Assembly is a place for disorder rather than problem-solving. Stressing that maintaining discipline is the responsibility of the Chair, he said he would not hesitate to act against any attempt to disrupt the functioning of the House.
“I do not want a situation where strict action becomes necessary, but I will not tolerate disorder under any circumstances. Each one of us represents nearly one lakh people. We must set an example of discipline and demonstrate how public issues should be raised in a democratic forum,” Rather said, concluding his appeal for orderly and constructive proceedings during the Budget session.(KINS)
