Stormy Session Ahead: J&K Assembly to Tackle MLA Arrests & Flood Fallout from Oct 13

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J&K Assembly Session Likely from Oct 13: MLA Arrests & Flood Damage on Agenda

J&K Assembly Session Likely from Oct 13: MLA Arrests & Flood Damage on Agenda

By: Javid Amin | 23 September 2025

A Session Set for Stormy Debates

The Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly is likely to convene on October 13, 2025, with a packed and politically charged agenda. From the controversial arrest of AAP MLA Abdul Rashid Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA) to the devastating flood damage across north Kashmir, lawmakers are preparing for a session that could prove both fiery and consequential.

Analysts expect the debates to set the tone for the run-up to the 2026 Assembly elections, with opposition parties gearing up to corner the government on issues of civil liberties, governance, and disaster management.

MLA Arrest Under PSA: Democracy on Trial?

The arrest of AAP MLA Abdul Rashid Malik has already sparked statewide controversy. Detained under the PSA—a law often criticized for its sweeping powers and lack of judicial safeguards—Malik’s case is expected to dominate proceedings.

  • Opposition’s stance:

    • JKNC and PDP are preparing to demand a judicial probe into Malik’s detention.

    • They argue that the arrest is politically motivated, aimed at silencing dissent and weakening new political challengers ahead of elections.

    • Civil society groups have echoed similar concerns, warning of an erosion of democratic space in the Valley.

  • Government’s defense:

    • The ruling dispensation, with BJP backing, is likely to defend the move, citing “national integrity and security.”

    • Officials suggest that Malik’s past activism and “links of concern” warranted preventive action.

This face-off is expected to sharpen divisions in the Assembly, with the PSA once again becoming a lightning rod for Kashmir’s contested politics.

Flood Damage & Relief: People vs. Paperwork

Parallel to the political storm is the human crisis unfolding in flood-hit areas. Heavy rains and flash floods in September devastated parts of Sopore, Bandipora, and Kupwara, damaging homes, orchards, roads, and power infrastructure.

  • Opposition’s critique:

    • Compensation has been delayed or inadequate, leaving thousands of families stranded.

    • Local representatives accuse the administration of focusing on “photo-ops” while relief distribution remains patchy.

  • Government’s position:

    • Officials claim relief measures are underway, with teams assessing losses and distributing aid.

    • Yet, ground reports suggest that rehabilitation is moving slower than promised, with many villages still waiting for basic relief kits.

Opposition parties are expected to demand special central intervention and a comprehensive disaster resilience fund, arguing that Kashmir’s fragile ecology requires sustained investment rather than ad-hoc responses.

Political Undercurrents: Alliances, Rhetoric & 2026

The upcoming session is not just about legislation—it’s about positioning for the 2026 elections.

  • JKNC and PDP are likely to present a joint front, using Malik’s arrest and flood mismanagement to highlight governance failures.

  • BJP, on the other hand, will try to turn the narrative towards national security, development promises, and corruption-free governance.

  • Smaller players like Apni Party and independents may play the balancing role, pressing for local issues like employment and rural infrastructure.

“This session must deliver answers—not just speeches,” said a senior JKNC leader, hinting at a united opposition strategy.

What to Watch Out For

  1. Debate on PSA misuse: Will Malik’s case trigger a wider demand for PSA reform?

  2. Flood relief assurances: Will the government announce new packages or central aid?

  3. Opposition unity: Can JKNC and PDP sustain a coordinated strategy against BJP?

  4. Public perception: With elections near, how the government handles both issues could shape voter sentiment.

Bottom-Line: A Test for Governance & Democracy

As the J&K Assembly reconvenes on October 13, it faces the dual challenge of defending democratic norms and responding to human suffering. The coming weeks will reveal whether the session becomes just another shouting match—or a genuine platform for accountability and relief.

Either way, the outcome will resonate far beyond the Assembly halls, touching both the political future of Kashmir and the everyday lives of its people.

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