Historic Milestone: J&K Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather Sets Record for Presiding Hours

JAMMU, April 6, 2026:-In a landmark moment for parliamentary democracy in the region, the Speaker of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly (JKLA), Abdul Rahim Rather, has established an unprecedented historic record during the recently concluded 2026 Budget Session.

Demonstrating an extraordinary level of commitment and physical endurance, the Speaker personally presided over all 22 sittings of the session. Out of a total 110.36 hours of active legislative business, Rather chaired the proceedings for an astounding 102.35 hours, leaving only a small fraction of approximately 8 hours to be managed by the panel of Chairmen.

This feat is particularly significant as it occurred in the absence of a Deputy Speaker, marking the first time in the legislative history of Jammu & Kashmir that a Speaker has shouldered such an exhaustive workload almost entirely on his own.

The Speaker’s unwavering leadership and mental agility throughout the intense session have drawn widespread acclaim from constitutional experts and political observers alike.

His ability to maintain the decorum of the House and ensure the smooth conduct of complex budgetary deliberations for such extended periods is being hailed as unparalleled. Members of the Legislative Assembly across the political spectrum—transcending party lines—offered a rare display of bipartisanship to express their deep appreciation for his dedication.

This record-breaking performance is being viewed as an inspirational testament to public service and a new benchmark for legislative efficiency and duty in India’s parliamentary landscape.