Will uphold Indian Constitution in J&K LA: LoP Sunil Sharma

Jammu, Nov 13: Leader of Opposition in J&K Legislative Assembly Sunil Sharma Wednesday stated that BJP legislators would uphold the sanctity of Indian Constitution in the House and would object to talks of “return of Article 370.”

“We too wanted a fruitful assembly session, highlighting people’s issues as it (session) was convened after a long time. However, they (Government) diverted the session and brought a resolution which was unconstitutional, illegal and undemocratic. Obviously, we had to oppose it,” Sharma said, while responding to media queries regarding the BJP uproar in the just concluded maiden session.

Reacting to criticism of BJP legislators and media by the Deputy Chief Minister, Sharma said, “He is conveying what is his party’s philosophy or what is being dictated there. I don’t want to comment on that. BJP legislators are there to serve the electorate's interests, J&K’s interests and the country's interests. We want full flow of constitution and law in J&K.”

“When we objected to the conduct of the Speaker, we were criticised. But there the Speaker, himself, acting as spokesperson of the ruling party, says in the Legislative Assembly that the special resolution passed today reflects Article 370. Should we’ve listened to it quietly? There is nothing like the word “special status” anywhere mentioned related to J&K. I dare even the Chief Minister to show it,” Sharma said, in response to a question about BJP’s verbal assault against the Speaker.

“If they want special status (Article 370) which favours two flags, two constitutions and which does not allow the writ of the Supreme Court and the Election Commission of India. It’s not acceptable to us. The Speaker, himself, is defining special status as Article 370. That is unacceptable to BJP, its entire rank and file,” the Leader of Opposition said.

“If they would have talked about financial packages, jobs for youth, we would have discussed and wholeheartedly participated,” Sharma said.