A Call for Responsible Governance in J&K UT: Rajni Sethi
Jammu, 05 May 2025: Since the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, Jammu and Kashmir underwent a significant constitutional transformation, transitioning from a state to a Union Territory (UT). This shift brought about a new administrative structure governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, which clearly outlines the powers and responsibilities of both the Lieutenant Governor (LG) and the elected government.
In October, the National Conference (NC) formed its government in the UT. However, for the past seven months, the government has failed to deliver on the ground. Despite having been given the opportunity to serve the people, it appears to be stuck in a cycle of excuses, citing the absence of formal “Transaction of Business Rules” as the primary reason for administrative inaction. This has caused immense suffering to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who had hoped for a government that would prioritize development, employment, infrastructure, and public welfare.
When the public raises their concerns, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah often blames the LG, Manoj Sinha, for withholding powers and not approving proposals. However, according to the Reorganization Act, the LG holds a stronger constitutional position in the UT framework, especially in key matters of law, order, and administration. Given this, one must question why the NC-led government submitted the Cabinet Sub-Committee (CSC) recommendations for business rules to the Raj Bhawan without aligning them with the Act. This act of forwarding a file that is inconsistent with the Reorganization Act seems to be a deliberate delay tactic rather than a genuine administrative process.
The recent rejection of the CSC recommendations by the LG is not surprising, as the recommendations reportedly conflicted with the framework laid out in the Reorganization Act. The Constitution and the Act must be respected. The government’s approach appears to be politically motivated, creating a narrative of helplessness while avoiding real governance. This is unfair to the citizens who are bearing the brunt of administrative paralysis.
If the NC government is truly sincere about the welfare of the people, then it must act responsibly, not emotionally or politically. CM Omar Abdullah should immediately ensure that the revised proposal for the Transaction of Business Rules is prepared in accordance with the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act. A proper file, legally sound and constitutionally valid, should be submitted to the LG’s office to enable smooth governance.
The people of Jammu and Kashmir have endured enough political uncertainty and bureaucratic delay. It is time for action, not blame games. The current leadership must understand the responsibility it holds and work within the legal framework to deliver governance. Governance is not about power struggles; it is about service to the people.
We urge CM Omar Abdullah to prioritize the public interest, ensure coordination with the LG’s office, and restore faith in democratic governance. Only then can we move forward on the path of progress and stability.
