Jammu, March 30, 2026 : In a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday rejected a private member’s bill moved by BJP MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia seeking protection and restoration of temples, including those allegedly encroached during militancy.
The bill was defeated through a voice vote after strong opposition from the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
⚖️ Government’s Stand
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, replying on behalf of the government, asserted that:
- Jammu and Kashmir already has robust legal and institutional safeguards
- The UT’s identity is rooted in communal harmony and equal respect for all religions
- Protection extends to temples, mosques, gurdwaras, and churches alike
He emphasized:
“No religion or community has the right to encroach upon another’s sacred place… strict action will be taken wherever violations occur.”
🏛️ Existing Institutional Framework
The Deputy CM highlighted mechanisms already in place:
- Waqf Board (Muslim institutions)
- Gurdwara Prabandhak Board (Sikh institutions)
- Dharmarth Trust (Hindu temples)
According to the government, these frameworks are sufficient to safeguard religious properties across communities.
🗣️ Debate & Political Exchange
While introducing the bill, Mankotia argued it aimed to institutionalize protection and reclaim encroached temple lands, especially those affected during peak militancy and displacement in the Valley.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally opposed the bill in the House.
A brief procedural moment occurred when Mankotia initially insisted that the CM respond instead of the Deputy CM, but he later agreed following intervention by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather.
🤝 Call for Harmony
Invoking the legacy of Farooq Abdullah, the Deputy CM reiterated the government’s commitment to:
- Religious inclusivity
- Brotherhood and coexistence
- Zero tolerance for encroachments
With the BJP MLA refusing to withdraw the bill, it was put to vote and ultimately rejected by the House.
