Security Withdrawal Row Rocks Assembly; MLAs Across Parties Seek Urgent Review

Hemani Kandhari

31 March, 2026: Assembly proceedings witnessed sharp exchanges over the issue of withdrawal of security cover to political leaders, with Hassnain Masoodi raising the matter after Question Hour. He flagged concerns over the removal of security at the Nawai Subh Complex, the headquarters of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference in Srinagar, terming it a serious lapse given the recent security environment.

Earlier, Hassnain Masoodi raised the issue through an adjournment motion, seeking an urgent discussion on the withdrawal of security escorts to MLAs, calling it vital for the safety and functioning of legislators. The Speaker, however, deferred the matter until after Question Hour, citing procedural norms.

The issue of security arrangements has remained sensitive in recent days, particularly after discussions in the House on the Assassination attempt on Farooq Abdullah, during which several MLAs had voiced concerns over the safety of political leaders. During that debate, Waheed ur Rehman Para flagged safety concerns regarding Mehbooba Mufti’s residence, to which Minister Sakina Itoo responded that she has accommodation in Gupkar. Para also questioned the reduction in security of PCC chief Tariq Hameed Karra and referred to an earlier notice concerning Sajjad Gani Lone.

Speaking on the issue, MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan termed the attack on Farooq Abdullah “very unfortunate” and urged the Chair to issue directions, asserting that as the Lieutenant Governor holds charge of the Home Department, accountability must be fixed in case of any untoward incident.

MLA Nizamuddin Bhat stressed that security is a shared concern, stating that “every party runs the risk.” Recalling the downgrade of Tariq Hameed Karra’s security, he said he was informed by officials that it was due to election deployment and fuel constraints. “Karra even said he would bear fuel expenses himself, yet the downgrade continued. This is a matter concerning all of us,” he said.

Calling for collective action, Bhat added that a strong resolution should be sent on the issue.

Several members, including Surjeet Singh Slathia and Salam Sagar, echoed similar concerns, calling for equal security cover for all representatives.

JKNC Leaders described the withdrawal of security from the NC headquarters as “surprising and shocking,” especially in light of recent threats and reports of MLAs being on hit lists. Members pointed out that Abdullah frequently visits the Srinagar office and that such a move undermines safety.

“Security is not a status symbol—if representatives are not safe, who will raise people’s issues?” members remarked, urging the Speaker to escalate the matter to the highest level.

Amid the debate, Sajjad Gani Lone objected, arguing that security issues should not be politicised in the House. “When we raise other issues like PSA, we are told it is not under this House. Then why allow discussion on security?” he said, adding that he himself does not have a house guard.

The Speaker clarified that he had not stopped discussion but only regulated the manner of raising the issue. The Deputy Chief Minister responded sharply to Lone, questioning his stance and drawing attention to his own privileges.

Senior member Javid Hassan Baig termed the situation “unfortunate,” urging unity on the issue rather than political blame games.
Javaid accusing Lone of selective concern and stating that security concerns should not be used to shield institutions. The killing of Sajjad Gani Lone’s father was a loss for all of Jammu and Kashmir, but it is not appropriate for him to repeatedly invoke it. He should move beyond personal grief and refrain from adopting an overly emotional approach of womenestic attitude. He said the loss suffered by Lone’s family was shared by all but stressed that broader issues must be addressed collectively.

Intervening in the debate, the Speaker acknowledged the gravity of the matter, stating that security cannot be handled on a “pick and choose” basis. He emphasized the need for clear norms and called for a review of decisions related to security withdrawal, noting that the House’s message was “loud and clear” on ensuring safety for all public representatives.

The issue is expected to see further deliberations, with members demanding a strong resolution and intervention at the highest level.