Even as BJP legislators continued to protest inside the House, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday expressed regret over his alleged remarks in the Legislative Assembly, saying he did not intend to hurt anyone.
Omar said, “I regret my remarks if they have caused any hurt. My comments were directed at them and not at their family members. However, their field commander (referring to LoP Sunil Sharma) went to the extent of dragging my late grandfather into the matter while leaving.”
Earlier, BJP MLAs termed the comment as inappropriate and against the dignity of the House. Raising slogans inside the Assembly, the members demanded that the Chief Minister withdraw the remark and tender an apology, leading to a brief walkout.
The BJP legislators later returned to the House and reiterated their demand for an apology. “Let the CM come forward and say it was a slip of tongue, express regret, and apologise,” they said. Despite the noisy scenes and continued protests, the proceedings of the House continued.
Also read: BJP walks out of J&K Assembly over CM Omar’s remarks
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma on Wednesday accused the Speaker of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly of favouring the ruling government and alleged that the House proceedings were being conducted under the direction of the treasury benches, calling the situation “unfortunate” for the legislature.
Sharma’s remarks came in response to comments made by the Chief Minister during a recent Assembly session.
Speaking to reporters, Sharma said the language used by the Chief Minister had made even members present in the House uncomfortable. He questioned whether Abdullah felt any shame for his words and said the Chief Minister should have personally clarified and justified his remarks.
“They have no answer,” Sharma said, adding that he had raised the issue previously and was reiterating it for accountability.
The LoP also criticised the National Conference, alleging a pattern of arrogance within its leadership. He said being born into the family of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah appeared to instil a sense of entitlement and claimed the party had a history of internal discord.
Sharma further said the Chief Minister had shown no remorse over his remarks and questioned what could be expected from a House and a Speaker that tolerated such behaviour.
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