J&K Speaker says ‘don’t take security scenario lightly’, as NC alleges withdrawal of party office security cover

Withdrawal of security of politicians and ruling National Conference (NC) headquarters in Srinagar dominated the J&K Assembly proceedings on Tuesday (March 31, 2026), with the Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather stressing that “the security scenario cannot be taken lightly”.

“The concerns raised by legislators should be taken seriously by the concerned authorities. The security scenario cannot be taken lightly. Past incidents must guide present decisions. If the administration believes the situation is normal, declare J&K as a risk-free region,” said Mr. Rather.

The Speaker made the statement after the legislators from ruling NC and Opposition Congress expressed concern over the withdrawal of security of politicians, especially from the Kashmir valley.

Citing the recent assassination attempt on NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah in Jammu on March 10, NC legislator Salman Sagar said, “Days after the incident security of the party headquarters was withdrawn in spite of the fact that Dr. Abdullah attends the office”.

Mr. Sagar said security should be solely provided on the inputs of the intelligence agencies and “not on the recommendation of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh)”.