Omar Abdullah Says Parliament Logjam May Ease as Union Home Minister’s Statement Expected to Restore Smooth Functioning

Srinagar, Aug 10: Monsoon session of Parliament has remained stalled due to unrelenting protests, but hopes of a breakthrough grew on Monday as Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the impasse could ease once the Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivers his statement, paving the way for smooth proceedings in the House.

Abdullah, speaking at a function here said that if questions on incidents at Jantar Mantar and the handling of demonstrations are answered in Parliament, it would help restore order.

However, he cautioned that if disruptions continue even after the intervention, the public will not view it positively, stressing that people expect Parliament to function efficiently given the resources spent on its operation.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju had said that the readiness for a full debate in the Lok Sabha on student agitations and police action across the country. He said the Home Minister will reply, provided the Opposition allows the discussion without interruptions.

Abdullah said that such exchanges are the essence of parliamentary democracy, where the Opposition raises issues and the government responds.

On protests in Jharkhand over alleged recruitment examination irregularities, Abdullah said he does not have time to follow developments in other states closely, adding that demonstrations should remain peaceful and situations must not deteriorate.

He added that each state must address its own challenges, while reiterating that protests should not spiral into violence.

Responding to speculation about expanding his council of ministers, Abdullah informed that expansion will take place but dismissed the urgency of constant questioning. He said such changes are part of governance and will happen in due course.

Asked about the attack on Mamata Banerjee’s vehicle, Abdullah said he cannot comment on every incident across the country, adding that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains stable.