Authority Undermined: NC Govt Criticizes L-G Over JKAS Transfers
Srinagar, April 3, 2025 – The National Conference (NC)-led government in Jammu and Kashmir has strongly objected to Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha’s recent order transferring 48 Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, marking the first major reshuffle since the elected government assumed office in October 2024. The move has sparked a significant confrontation between the elected government and Raj Bhavan.
Details of the Transfers
On April 1, the J&K administration, acting on L-G Sinha’s orders, transferred officers at the level of Additional Deputy Commissioners, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and Assistant Commissioners (Revenue). Until now, the L-G had primarily overseen transfers within the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Home Department, which fall under his direct jurisdiction.
The Raj Bhavan defended the decision, stating that the transferred officers held “magisterial powers” linked to law and order, which falls under the L-G’s authority as per the J&K Reorganisation Act. However, the elected government argues that the transfer of non-IAS officers is under its domain and should have been postponed until the Business Rules governing administrative functions were finalized.
Political Reactions
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the ruling alliance and opposition parties:
- Congress leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir: “It has sent the wrong message that everything is not well within the J&K administration.”
- NC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq: “No one has the right to undermine the authority of the elected government. The mandate of the people must be respected.”
- AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi: Termed the move an “insult to the ruling government” and accused the BJP of exerting undue influence over J&K’s administration.
Chief Minister’s Response
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to L-G Sinha, urging him to review the decision. In his letter, Abdullah argued that the transfers and postings of non-All India Services officers are the exclusive prerogative of the elected government. He has also raised the issue with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, expressing concerns that the L-G’s actions are eroding the authority of his government.
Abdullah has called for the swift finalization of the Transaction of Business Rules, which were approved by the Cabinet on March 6 but are awaiting the L-G’s approval. He has also instructed Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo to ensure that no transfer orders for non-All India Services officers are issued without his prior approval.
