CM Omar Abdullah Expresses Discontent Over L-G's Transfer Orders, Schedules Meeting
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Synopsis
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convenes a meeting of National Conference legislators due to concerns over the transfer of 48 JKAS officers by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha. This action has sparked political speculation and highlights tensions between the elected government and the L-G's authority in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
- CM Omar Abdullah is unhappy with the transfer of 48 JKAS officers.
- The transfer is viewed as interference by the Lt. Governor.
- Emergency meeting scheduled with party legislators.
- Concerns about the balance of power between the L-G and elected officials.
- Administrative challenges persist without statehood restoration.
Srinagar, April 3 (NationPress) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has summoned a gathering of National Conference (NC) legislators and partners this Friday following the transfer of 48 JKAS officers by Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, igniting a flurry of political speculation in Jammu and Kashmir.
The transfer directive issued by the L-G has not been taken lightly by CM Omar Abdullah.
Insiders suggest that the elected government perceives these directives as an overreach by the L-G into administrative duties that fall under the jurisdiction of the elected officials.
“Omar Sahib is displeased with this situation,” disclosed NC sources.
Conversely, sources associated with the L-G argue that these transfers involve civil administration officers directly linked to law and order, thus falling within the L-G's authority.
NC insiders indicate that this marks the second instance where the Raj Bhawan has provoked the government led by Omar Abdullah.
“While Omar Sahib was performing ‘Umrah’ in Saudi Arabia, similar orders had been issued by the L-G,” stated a senior NC figure.
Consequently, the Chief Minister has organized an urgent meeting with party legislators and allies at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary in Srinagar on Friday at 11 a.m.
“Some crucial topics are expected to be addressed in tomorrow’s urgent meeting,” mentioned another NC leader, clearly attempting to alleviate concerns that something serious may arise after the meeting.
The authority of the L-G encompasses law & order, IAS/IPS officers, home department, anti-corruption bureau (ACB), prisons, and the appointment of government counsels, including the advocate general.
While the deputy commissioner, as the head of the revenue department in the district, is under the revenue minister, his role as district magistrate falls under the jurisdiction of the L-G.
What applies to the deputy commissioner similarly pertains to sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs) and executive magistrates such as tehsildars and naib-tehsildars, who are crucial for maintaining law & order.
“It’s a classic case where different standards apply,” remarked a retired senior bureaucrat.
Unless statehood is reinstated in J&K, any effort to question the authority of the L-G is likely to lead to an administrative stalemate that will not serve the interests of the common populace, whose concerns in the UT far exceed whether an SDM is transferred by the L-G or the Chief Minister.
