| 14 months on, J&K Assembly still without Deputy Speaker | | | Early Times Report
Jammu, Jan 5: Even as the Omar Abdullah-led government prepares to present its second Budget beginning February 2, the National Conference (NC)-led dispensation has yet to appoint a Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, triggering political debate and opposition criticism. The NC government, supported by the Congress, CPI(M) and Independents, assumed office on October 16, 2024. However, more than a year later, the key constitutional position of Deputy Speaker remains vacant, with the opposition—particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)—seeking clarity on the delay.
Following the October 2024 Assembly elections, the BJP emerged as the principal opposition party with 29 seats. As per long-standing legislative convention, the Deputy Speaker’s post is usually allotted to the largest opposition party, enabling it to play a meaningful role in Assembly proceedings. On this basis, the BJP has been expecting its nominee to be appointed.
As reported earlier by Early Times, BJP leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have raised concerns over the delay and urged the government to adhere to parliamentary traditions. Party sources said informal communications have been made to the ruling dispensation, but no definitive response has been received so far.
“The post of Deputy Speaker is important for the smooth functioning of the Assembly. It is an established convention that the position goes to the principal opposition party. Since the BJP holds that status, the appointment should be made without further delay,” a senior BJP leader told Early Times, requesting anonymity.
The leader added that appointing a Deputy Speaker from the opposition would send a positive political signal and could also help the NC-led government foster better coordination with the Centre.
Despite growing pressure, the Omar Abdullah government has not issued any official statement on the matter. Political observers believe the ruling party is weighing its options carefully, given the sensitive and complex political environment in Jammu and Kashmir.
While there is no constitutional mandate requiring the immediate appointment of a Deputy Speaker, the prolonged delay—nearly 14 months after the formation of the government—has fuelled speculation about possible political calculations. Some analysts suggest the NC may be deliberately delaying the decision to limit the BJP’s influence in the House.
With the Budget session approaching and the BJP continuing to press its claim, the issue of the Deputy Speaker’s appointment is expected to gain further prominence in the coming weeks. Until a decision is taken, the Legislative Assembly will continue to function without a Deputy Speaker, adding another layer of political uncertainty to the Union Territory’s governance. |
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