Tension Mounts: J&K Faces Governance Shift with New LG Powers, Political Reactions
Srinagar : After the Ministry of Home Affairs amended the rules of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, enhancing the powers of the Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the implications for the new Chief Minister, warning that these changes would effectively render the CM powerless. He emphasized the need for a clear timeline for restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir before elections are held, asserting that the people deserve leadership that is not merely a figurehead dependent on the LG for even routine administrative decisions.
Omar Abdullah’s remarks came shortly after the notification from the MHA, which President Droupadi Murmu approved under the authority conferred by section 55 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. The amendments, titled the Transaction of Business of the Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (Second Amendment) Rules, 2024, come into effect on July 12, coinciding with speculation about impending assembly elections in the region.
Reacting to the amendments, former Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and senior BJP leader Kavinder Gupta welcomed the changes, stating they are crucial in ensuring fair and active governance ahead of the anticipated elections. He dismissed concerns raised by Abdullah, asserting that the amendments are necessary to maintain law and order and improve overall governance in the region.
The amended rules include provisions requiring proposals related to critical areas such as police, public order, All India Services, and anti-corruption measures to be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary for approval. They also outline procedures for appointments in the Department of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs, underscoring the LG’s role in key administrative decisions previously under the Chief Minister’s purview.
The amendments mark another significant step in the evolving administrative framework of Jammu and Kashmir since its reorganization, aiming to streamline governance processes and enhance the role of the LG in decision-making across various sectors.
