The controversy surrounding the Pir Panjal region escalated further during the budget session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday. Amid allegations and demands for an apology from Rajouri MLA Iftikhar Ahmed, Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma categorically stated, “I will not apologize at any cost.”
Sunil Sharma’s statement further escalated the atmosphere in the House. The proceedings were repeatedly disrupted amid shouting, shouting, and accusations.
Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma, speaking in the House, stated that he had not insulted any region or community. He said that if one studies ancient scriptures and texts, it becomes clear that the Rajouri-Poonch region has historically been known as the Chandrabhaga region.
He insisted that his statement was being misinterpreted.
Sunil Sharma sharply retorted to the leaders making the allegations, saying that the MLAs making them are themselves under pressure.
He said, “These leaders are accusing me, but they lack the courage to speak openly about the truth. They fear pressure from their superiors and political leadership, and therefore remain silent on the real issues.”
The situation in the House escalated following this statement. BJP MLAs raised slogans of “Hindustan Zindabad” and “Vande Mataram,” while Congress and National Conference MLAs from the Pir Panjal region chanted “Pir Panjal Zindabad.”
Rajouri MLA Iftikhar Ahmed said that the House would not be allowed to proceed until the Leader of the Opposition publicly apologized for his statement. Meanwhile, slogans of “LOP apologize” also echoed in the House.
Due to the continued uproar, the Speaker adjourned the Assembly for 15 minutes. After the proceedings were adjourned, MLAs from the Pir Panjal region staged a sit-in protest outside the House and reiterated their demand for a public apology from the Leader of the Opposition.
However, Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma remained firm in his stance. He made it clear that his statement was based on historical facts and that he would not apologize under any political pressure.
This controversy surrounding the Pir Panjal region is no longer confined to the House, but is signaling a new political conflict in Jammu and Kashmir politics.
