Will Omar Abdullah Fulfill Promises Without Statehood?
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Synopsis
As the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, led by Omar Abdullah, marks its first anniversary, questions arise regarding its unfulfilled promises. Amid calls for statehood restoration, the government grapples with operational challenges while making strides in constituency development funds. Can the government rise to the occasion, or will it continue to use statehood as an excuse for inaction?
Key Takeaways
- Omar Abdullah's government has not fulfilled election promises in its first year.
- The call for statehood restoration remains a central issue.
- Local governance has been challenged due to administrative constraints.
- The Darbar Move practice is being reinstated.
- Ministers have been given more control over departmental decisions.
Srinagar, Oct 16 (NationPress) The elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, led by Omar Abdullah, marked its first anniversary on Thursday without delivering on the commitments made to the populace during the elections.
Nevertheless, leaders and spokespersons from the ruling National Conference (NC) argue that one year is insufficient to assess the government's performance.
Since assuming office, the Chief Minister, along with his cabinet colleagues and the NC, has consistently advocated for the restoration of statehood to J&K. During its inaugural session, the legislative assembly adopted a resolution calling for this restoration.
The central government has expressed its dedication to reinstating statehood for J&K, yet insists that it will occur at an appropriate time.
The Supreme Court is currently deliberating on a petition regarding statehood restoration, and during the last session, the apex court granted the Union government four weeks to submit its response.
Omar Abdullah has publicly stated that he is managing the government akin to a horse burdened with tied legs.
His father, Farooq Abdullah, the elderly president of the NC, remarked that governing J&K resembles walking on a razor's edge. Omar mentioned that all his administrative secretaries, who previously provided him with multiple options to achieve tasks, are now presenting excuses for inaction.
According to the constitution, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has reiterated that he oversees law enforcement and order, and is aware of his boundaries, assuring he will not overstep.
Central services such as the IAS and IPS fall under the purview of the L-G, but only concerning their assignments.
As administrative secretaries of various departments, overseen by cabinet ministers and the chief minister, they are subordinate to the elected government's decisions.
The cabinet led by Omar Abdullah has resolved to reinstate the biannual practice of relocating high-level government offices between Srinagar and Jammu.
This century-old tradition, abandoned by the L-G, will see top government offices shut in Srinagar by the end of this month and resume operations in Jammu in November.
The decision to revive what is known as the 'Darbar Move' will be implemented as per the elected government's resolution. Recently, the administration executed 108 transfers of senior and mid-tier JKAS officials without any interference.
Various ministers are actively making decisions, conducting meetings, and overseeing departmental operations aside from the Home Department, retaining full authority over these sectors.
Education, healthcare, infrastructure, finance, and other domains, excluding the home department, are under the jurisdiction of the elected government.
All deputy commissioners and senior superintendents of police across the 20 districts of J&K, regardless of their affiliation with IAS, IPS, or JKPS, are mandated to execute all developmental directives from the elected government.
Despite these powers, ministers and NC leaders publicly assert that without the restoration of statehood, public issues cannot be effectively addressed in J&K.
The elected government announced an increase in the constituency development fund for MLAs from Rs 3 crore to Rs 4 crore, and this is currently being enacted.
It is widely accepted in J&K that while the central government must fulfill its promise regarding statehood, claiming that the elected government lacks authority serves as an excuse to avoid accountability for non-performance.
The sooner the elected government acknowledges its obligation to deliver results instead of attributing failures to the absence of statehood, the better it will be for the populace and those in power in J&K.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize that while the restoration of statehood is essential, the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir must also demonstrate accountability and initiative. The citizens deserve effective governance regardless of political constraints. Fulfilling promises is paramount for building trust and ensuring progress in the region.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current political situation in Jammu and Kashmir?
The elected government, led by Omar Abdullah, has completed one year in office but has not fulfilled many campaign promises. The government is advocating for the restoration of statehood while managing various departments.
Why is statehood important for Jammu and Kashmir?
Statehood is considered crucial for restoring autonomy and empowering local governance in Jammu and Kashmir, which would allow elected representatives to make decisions that directly impact the lives of the residents.
What steps has the government taken in its first year?
The government has increased the constituency development fund for MLAs and decided to restore the 'Darbar Move', showcasing efforts to engage in governance despite the ongoing challenges.
Is the central government supportive of restoring statehood?
Yes, the central government has indicated a commitment to restoring statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, although it insists that this will occur at the appropriate time.
How do local leaders perceive their governance capabilities?
Local leaders, including Omar Abdullah, have expressed frustration over limitations in governance, suggesting that they feel constrained by the lack of statehood while also acknowledging their responsibilities.
