Owais Gul
Srinagar, Oct 23: Paying tributes to the former MLAs during obituary references on the first day of Assembly Session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday suggested changing the system at par with the Parliament and requested to adopt a similar concise procedure for offering condolences.
The Chief Minister also urged the Speaker to seek an explanation over the omission of late Sultan Panditpuri’s name in the obituary reference.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly, CM Omar said that those (former MLAs) whom we are paying respects today worked to do something better. “Nobody among us is an angel. Mistakes are bound to happen either intentionally or unintentionally,” he said.
The Chief Minister firmly urged the Speaker to streamline the obituary proceedings by paying respects without lengthy speeches. “We are politicians and always bring politics into everything. I suggest that we must change the system at par with the Parliament and let the reference come from the Speaker only that will save time for the House. The Speaker is requested to adopt a similar concise procedure for offering condolences,” he stated.
The Speaker welcomed the suggestion and said it would be duly considered.
“Those we remember today once stood where we stand. One day, we too will be remembered. Let us strive to learn from their example,” Omar said, adding that these leaders have served the people after being elected by them or while being associated with any party.
Highlighting the work of former J&K Governor, Satya Pal Malik’s role, the Chief Minister said that he has worked as an MLA and served as Governor in different states besides serving as a minister. “We may have different opinions, but Satya Pal Malik might have taken a decision that suits the time,” he said.
Paying tribute to G M Shaheen, the Chief Minister described him as a courageous leader who continued to serve the people with determination even after surviving a major landmine blast.
Moreover, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the negligence of the concerned district administration for failing to inform the Assembly Secretariat about the demise of former Legislator Mohammad Sultan Pandithpuri.
“You (Speaker) have already taken note of the lapse, and I am sure the Chief Secretary must have also acted on it. An explanation must be sought from the concerned officers,” he said. (KNO)
