The first legislation brought by the NC-led government in the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly triggered protests from Kashmir-based opposition, with Peoples Conference President Sajad Gani Lone accusing the government of endorsing UT Status of J&K.
As Omar Abdullah tabled Jammu & Kashmir Goods and Services (Amendment) Act-2025 in the House, Lone stood up and objected to the legislation.
“It would be an endorsement of conversion of Jammu & Kashmir into a UT. I wouldn’t be part of this sin,” Lone said angrily and walked out.
PDP’s Waheed-ur-Rehman Para also expressed reservation over the bill.
In the amendments proposed by NC-led government in the GST law, the words “Government of Jammu & Kashmir” has been replaced with “Government of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir”
After Lone walked out, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that it is a reality that Jammu & Kashmir is a Union Territory.
Later, the bill was passed with voice—vote with NC, Congress and their allies supporting it—(KNO)
