Speaker Rejects Amendments on Article 370, Statehood – Alfaaz – The Words

Srinagar: Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Abdul Rahim Rather on Tuesday ruled out amendments moved by Peoples Conference president Sajad Gani Lone concerning Article 370, stating that the House had already adopted a resolution on the matter.

The ruling came after the Question Hour, when Lone sought an explanation for the disallowance of amendments related to Article 370, Article 35A, restoration of statehood, and rationalisation of reservations.

According to the Speaker, the Rules of Procedure bar discussion or amendments on issues that have already been debated or decided by the House. He said the amendment on Article 370 was therefore inadmissible.

Addressing the demand for statehood, the Speaker clarified that restoration of statehood does not fall within the competence of the present government.

Challenging the decision, Lone argued that he was not seeking the passage of any legislation on statehood, but only placing on record the intent and sentiment of the House regarding its restoration.