Srinagar, Oct 17 : Ahead of the Autumn Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Friday chaired a meeting with media professionals, security officials and the Directorate of Information to ensure smooth access and coordination during the proceedings.
“We called this meeting to remind our friends in the media about their responsibility in reporting the Assembly’s proceedings,” Rather said while speaking to KNS after the meeting. “We also wanted their suggestions on how they can come and go without any inconvenience and carry out their duties properly.”
He said previous sessions had seen some logistical issues, which were addressed immediately during the meeting. “We have told the SSP security that no media person should face any inconvenience at the entrance. There were also issues of vehicle parking due to rush of officers, and we took decisions on the spot,” he added.
Calling the media “a bridge between the government and the public,” the Speaker urged journalists to ensure responsible and quality coverage of Assembly debates.
“The media conveys the problems of the people to the government and the government’s policies to the public,” he said. “I requested the press to maintain quality. Speeches in the House should be reported in a way that improves the proceedings. Generally, we have seen chaos, breaking of microphones and unruly behavior. The press should discourage such things.”
Rather said that when good speeches receive attention, lawmakers are encouraged to maintain decorum. “Honourable members should not be sensational. They should follow the rules, maintain equality and work with morality,” he stressed.
When asked about the upcoming session, the Speaker said he expects healthy debates. “Inshallah, it will be fine. Our members are experienced. I told them we should make this session meaningful because the public has high expectations from us,” he said.
Rather also appealed to people to avoid overburdening MLAs with minor issues. “Even the smallest matters reach the MLA, and they get overburdened. People should understand their time and capacity. Only important issues should be brought to them,” he said.
He added that legislators, in turn, must remain accountable. “The public has appointed them and they should try to meet those expectations,” he said.
Referring to his own work, he said, “I represent an area and it is my duty to serve the people. As long as I am alive, I will continue to serve.”
The meeting was attended by senior journalists, media organisations, security officials and the Director of Information.
