November 4, 2024: Veteran National Conference (NC) leader Abdul Rahil Rather has been elected as the new Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, marking a significant moment in the region's political landscape. The 80-year-old MLA, who has represented the Charar-i-Sharief constituency in Budgam district for seven terms, was elected during the Assembly's first session in six years.

Rather’s election was conducted via voice vote, with opposition parties opting not to contest for the position. Protem Speaker Mubarak Gul oversaw the proceedings, and the motion to elect Rather was moved by Minister for Agriculture Javed Ahmad Dar, with support from NC MLA Arjun Singh Raju.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised Rather's election, calling him a "natural choice for the post of Speaker." Abdullah highlighted Rather's long-standing commitment to public service, stating, "You have served the people by sometimes being in the party and sometimes by being in the opposition. Now, you are the custodian of the House."

The Assembly session, which is set to last five days, is significant as it is the first since the Assembly's previous term ended. Later today, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is scheduled to address the Assembly, adding to the day’s historic proceedings.