In a dramatic turn during the autumn session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members staged a walkout on October 30, 2025, after their demand for a dedicated discussion on the devastating August floods was rejected. The protest, led by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, lasted through the entire Question Hour and culminated in a symbolic exit from the House, drawing attention to what the party termed “government apathy” toward flood-affected citizens.
The BJP had submitted an adjournment motion seeking a half-hour discussion on the flood crisis, which left thousands displaced and caused extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture across Jammu and Kashmir. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather declined the motion, stating that the matter could be addressed after Question Hour. The refusal triggered heated exchanges, sloganeering, and accusations of corruption against the ruling National Conference government.
🧠 Timeline of Assembly Events on October 30, 2025
| Time Slot | Event Description | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | House convenes for Question Hour | BJP demands adjournment motion |
| 10:15 AM | Speaker asks BJP to wait until post-Question Hour | BJP refuses, continues protest |
| 10:45 AM | Sloganeering and heated exchanges | Assembly proceedings disrupted |
| 11:00 AM | BJP MLAs walk out of the House | Protest against govt inaction |
The walkout was a strategic move to highlight the urgency of flood relief and rehabilitation.
📊 Impact of August 2025 Floods in Jammu & Kashmir
| Region Affected | Estimated Damage (INR) | Displaced Families | Key Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jammu | ₹1,200 crore | 8,000+ | Crop loss, damaged roads |
| Srinagar | ₹950 crore | 5,500+ | Urban flooding, power outages |
| Anantnag | ₹600 crore | 3,200+ | Landslides, school closures |
| Baramulla | ₹400 crore | 2,100+ | Bridge collapse, water contamination |
The floods were among the worst in recent years, prompting calls for urgent legislative attention.
🗣️ Statements from Key Leaders
| Leader | Remarks Summary |
|---|---|
| Sunil Sharma (BJP) | “People are looking to us to discuss this issue in the House.” |
| Abdul Rahim Rather (Speaker) | “Let the Question Hour proceed; discussion can follow.” |
| NC Spokesperson | “BJP is politicizing a humanitarian crisis.” |
The exchange revealed deep divisions over how the flood crisis should be addressed legislatively.
🏛️ BJP’s Demands and Legislative Strategy
| Demand | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjournment Motion | Immediate discussion on flood damage |
| Half-Hour Special Discussion | Focused debate on relief and rehabilitation |
| CM’s Apology | Accountability for unfulfilled promises |
| Dedicated Relief Package | Financial aid for affected families |
The BJP is positioning itself as the voice of flood victims, pressing for transparency and action.
📉 Public Sentiment and Media Reactions
| Stakeholder Group | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| Flood Victims | “We need help, not political drama.” |
| Civil Society Groups | “Discussion is essential, but action matters more.” |
| Local Media | “Walkout draws attention, but will it lead to change?” |
The walkout has sparked debate on whether symbolic protests translate into tangible relief.
📌 Conclusion
The BJP’s walkout from the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over the demand for a flood discussion underscores the growing political friction in the region. While the party seeks to amplify the voices of affected citizens, the ruling government maintains that procedural norms must be followed. As the flood victims await meaningful relief and rehabilitation, the legislative impasse raises questions about governance, accountability, and the role of elected representatives in times of crisis.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available legislative proceedings and media reports. It does not constitute political endorsement or policy advice. All views are for informational purposes only.
