Jammu, Jan. 5 -- Even as the Omar Abdullah-led government prepares to present its second Budget beginning February 2, the National Conference (NC)-led dispensation has yet to appoint a Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, triggering political debate and opposition criticism. The NC government, supported by the Congress, CPI(M) and Independents, assumed office on October 16, 2024. However, more than a year later, the key constitutional position of Deputy Speaker remains vacant, with the opposition-particularly the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-seeking clarity on the delay.
Following the October 2024 Assembly elections, the BJP emerged as the principal opposition party with 29 seats. As per long-standing legislative convention, the Dep...