Srinagar: National Conference leader and MLA Tanvir Sadiq on Sunday pointed out the “systemic flaws” in the Union Territory model after his Private Members’ Bill on drug abuse was returned by the Assembly secretariat. The rejection was based on the requirement to seek approval from the Lieutenant Governor.
Sadiq had proposed ‘The Jammu and Kashmir War Against Drug Abuse and Compulsory Teaching of Ill Effects of Drug Addiction in Schools Bill, 2025’ (LA Bill – Private Members, Bill No 2 of 2025).
However, he was informed that, since the Bill involves financial provisions and qualifies as a Money Bill, it must first receive input from the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department and approval from the Lieutenant Governor.
Sharing the Bill’s details along with the Assembly’s response, Sadiq, who is also the NC’s chief spokesperson, criticised the bureaucratic roadblocks, calling them a reminder of the “flaws” in the Union Territory model—a system his party has consistently opposed while advocating for the immediate restoration of full statehood. Despite the setback, he reaffirmed his commitment to pushing the Bill forward, stressing the urgent need to combat drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
He clarified that while the Bill has been removed from the Assembly’s agenda and must be resubmitted, his decision to share the information does not violate Rule 368 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly or any directive from the Speaker.
Sadiq appeared to be responding to Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather’s February 23 warning against the premature publicity of House business notices before the Budget Session, calling it a “breach of privilege.”
Sadiq emphasised that his Bill aims to protect the youth and safeguard the future of Jammu and Kashmir. “I will see this through,” he asserted.
