Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 25: Speaker Kavinder Gupta today informed the House that Independent MLA Engineer Rashid’s resolution on Afzal Guru had fallen in the draw of lots and wouldn’t be listed for discussion and passing on two days reserved for private member’s resolutions in the Assembly.
His remarks came after Rashid trooped near the Well of the House with the start of Question Hour this morning and continued protest for nearly an hour before being marshaled out of the House on the Chair’s directions.
Engineer Rashid was on his feet wanting to know why his resolution seeking return of mortal remains of Afzal Guru has been rejected.
The Speaker briefed him that draw of lots for the resolutions was held at 1.35 pm yesterday in which all the members, who had submitted the resolutions, were called to be present to watch the draw.
“Engineer Rashid didn’t turn up to watch the proceedings. His resolution was not selected in the draw and, therefore, will not be listed,’’ Gupta said.
Rashid, however, continued to protest in the House almost throughout the Question Hour during which he had heated exchanges with NC MLA Devender Rana and Congress MLA Usmaan Majid.
As he didn’t resume seat despite repeated appeals by the Speaker, the latter ordered the Marshal to take him out of the House.
Rashid told the reporters outside the House that he was asked by the Assembly Secretary to come to watch draw of lots at 1.30 pm.
“Later, I was told that draw of lots will be held at 5 pm. When I reached the Assembly at 5 pm, the Secretary told me that the draw was held at 1.30 pm,’’ Rashid said, alleging that his resolution has been rejected intentionally as the Government wanted to avoid debate on it.
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