MLA Javid Baig urges speaker to extend Assembly session to address public issues

Srinagar, Oct 20: MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig has written to the Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, urging that the upcoming Autumn Session be extended and conducted effectively to address the pressing issues of the people.

In his letter, Baig highlighted the Assembly’s crucial role in ensuring government accountability. “The sentiments and issues of the people must be raised, heard, and addressed with honesty and sincerity through the elected representatives, the MLAs,” he wrote.

He emphasised that elected legislators are accountable to both the government and their constituencies, and without adequate time in the Assembly, the purpose of elections is undermined.

Baig also pointed to the unique governance challenges in J&K, including overlapping powers, intra-departmental confusion, and dual responsibilities. “It is imperative that the institution of the Legislative Assembly is allowed to work and deliver,” he noted.

Referring to the previous session, Baig said it was largely unproductive due to disruptions. “The first session of this government was unfortunately wasted, and meaningful discussions and deliberations could not take place,” he wrote.

He requested that the Autumn Session be extended to two weeks to allow for thorough debate on Centre-State relations, governance issues, bills, resolutions, and public demands. Baig stressed that comparisons with other states or Union Territories should not justify a shorter session, given the “unique and unprecedented challenges” faced by J&K.

Concluding his appeal, Baig said, “I hope my voice and concerns are heard for the larger public good,” urging the Speaker to safeguard the effectiveness of the Assembly and ensure that it fulfills its mandate to the people.