‘I have an ex-MLA at home’: Pension Bill lends moment of mirth to stormy J&K House

On Tuesday, the J&K Assembly experienced a brief moment of levity amidst stormy scenes over a resolution for statehood. Chief Minister Omar Abduallah proposed a raise in pension for former legislators, granting them an additional Rs 10,000. Omar humorously commented that with the raise, it would be easier for him to return home.

His father, former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, laughed along, gesturing towards himself. Members of the House, including BJP legislators, also found the proposal amusing. Omar jokingly declared, "I have a former MLA at home."

Earlier, the Assembly began with a tense atmosphere as BJP leaders rose to protest against the statehood resolution passed the previous day. The BJP legislators hurled slogans at Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, demanding he step down. In response, NC leaders accused the Opposition of being "vote chor" or thieves. The BJP walked out of the Assembly, shouting "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "Speaker Sahib, Kursi Chhodo."