J&K Assembly adjourned sine die as Autumn Session 2026 concludes
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly was adjourned sine die on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, marking the formal conclusion of the 2026 Autumn Session in Srinagar. The session, which ran from 21 September to 30 September, lasted seven working days.
Speaker's Closing Remarks
Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather addressed members before the adjournment, thanking them for their participation and underscoring the importance of legislative engagement. He emphasised that his role as presiding officer was to help legislators raise public issues and convey the expectations of their constituents.
'I have tried to accommodate everyone irrespective of party affiliation, and I reiterate that I do not belong to any political party,' Rather said, reaffirming his neutrality from the Chair.
On Disruptions and Conduct
Rather acknowledged that the session had its share of disruptions and heated exchanges, noting that such incidents were not uncommon in legislatures globally. He urged members to channel their concerns more constructively, adding that he had exercised restraint rather than resorting to marshalling out disruptive members. 'I could have marshalled them out, but I did not. I have to keep patience,' he said.
The Speaker also addressed Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma directly over remarks on schooling, urging him to take the feedback positively and noting that high expectations were attached to the young leader's future.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's Attendance Praised
Rather specifically commended Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his regular attendance and active participation throughout the session. He noted that the Chief Minister responded to issues personally and came prepared, which he said contributed meaningfully to the functioning of the House. Abdullah was absent from the concluding proceedings due to official commitments, the Speaker added.
Tribute to Staff, Media and Council of Ministers
The Speaker praised the Council of Ministers for managing multiple departmental responsibilities, describing the workload as demanding. He also acknowledged the efforts of Assembly staff, security personnel, and line departments including PHE and PDD in facilitating the session.
Rather reserved particular appreciation for the press and media, calling them 'an important pillar of democracy and an important part of us.' He said journalists served as a vital link between the Assembly and the public, and acknowledged the media's contribution despite occasional lapses in conduct during proceedings.
What Comes Next
The conclusion of the Autumn Session leaves several legislative and administrative matters pending until the next sitting. Rather noted that longer sessions would benefit both presiding officers and legislators seeking to meaningfully represent their constituents — a remark that signals a push for expanded legislative calendar in J&K's ongoing transition as a Union Territory with a restored Assembly.