Srinagar, Sep 30 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was adjourned sine die on Wednesday.
In his concluding remarks, Rather, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), thanked members for their participation and said his responsibility as presiding officer was to facilitate legislators in raising public issues and conveying the expectations of the people they represent.
"I am thankful to all those who spoke here. As presiding officer, my responsibility is to facilitate you in raising the expectations of the people who have sent you here," Rather said.
Rather said he had tried to accommodate members irrespective of their political affiliations and reiterated that he does not belong to any political party.
"I have tried to accommodate everyone irrespective of party affiliation and I reiterate that I don't belong to any party," he said.
Acknowledging that the session was brief, the Speaker said longer sittings would provide members greater opportunity to participate in debates and raise constituency issues.
"Longer sessions will help me as well as those who want to participate in discussions on behalf of the people they represent," he said.
Rather acknowledged the difficulty of accommodating every member during limited sittings and urged legislators to understand the constraints faced by the Chair.
Referring to disruptions and heated exchanges, he said such incidents were common in legislatures across the world, but urged members to raise their concerns in a more constructive manner.
He said the Opposition also has its compulsions, which need to be taken into consideration. "I could have marshalled them out, but I didn't. I have to keep patience," Rather said.
The Speaker complimented legislators for their efforts and said the people had elected leaders who are the "cream of society".
He also urged members to bring to his notice any instance where work or assurances raised in the House were not being followed up.
Rather praised the Council of Ministers for their work, saying it was not easy to handle multiple departments and that their efforts deserved appreciation.
Referring to Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma's remarks on schooling, Rather urged him to take the matter positively, saying he is young and has a long future ahead.
"He is dear to me and expectations from him are high," Rather said, adding that youth also have expectations from their leaders.
Rather also praised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his regular attendance and participation in the proceedings.
He said the Chief Minister attended the session regularly, responded to issues himself and came prepared with substantial work, which contributed to the functioning of the House. Omar wanted to attend the concluding proceedings as well but had official commitments, Rather said.
The Speaker also acknowledged the efforts of Assembly staff, security personnel, PHE, PDD and other line departments in facilitating the proceedings.
He particularly praised the press and media, describing them as an important pillar of democracy and a vital link between the Assembly and the people.
"The press and media are an important pillar of democracy and an important part of us," Rather said, adding that journalists highlight people's issues and keep the public informed about Assembly proceedings.
He said the role of media during a session is sensitive and acknowledged its overall contribution despite occasional instances of misconduct.
Rather also praised the Assembly staff for efficiently managing the proceedings despite being limited in number.
"The Assembly staff, though less in number, are doing their best. They may not be able to do 100 per cent, but they do their work. They are praiseworthy," he said.
On demands raised by the Assembly staff, Rather said authorities were working on issues including promotions and other service-related matters.
The 2026 Autumn Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly was held in Srinagar from September 21 to September 30 and lasted seven days.
The Speaker subsequently adjourned the House sine die, formally concluding the Autumn Session—(KNO)