Growing Clash Between Jammu & Kashmir Government and LG Over Administrative Transfers. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called a meeting of legislators and coalition partners to discuss the Wakf Bill, the Assembly session, and the transfer controversy.
Jammu: A dispute is escalating between the elected government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in Jammu & Kashmir over the transfer of administrative officers. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has bly objected to the transfers of 48 Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, which took place two days ago. The Chief Minister has called a crucial meeting of legislators and coalition partners on Friday to discuss this issue.
Omar Government Unhappy with LG's Decision
On April 1st, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and senior administrative officials were engaged in Eid celebrations, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha issued an order concerning the transfer of 48 officers. This list included more than 12 magistrates. Although the state government did not publicly express any objection, the Chief Minister is reportedly unhappy with this decision.
Important Meeting of Legislators on April 4th
Mubarak Gul, the Chief Whip of the National Conference, has invited coalition partners and party legislators to a meeting at the Chief Minister's residence in Srinagar on April 4th. The meeting will discuss the rights of the elected government, the Wakf Amendment Bill, and the second phase of the Assembly session commencing on April 7th.
Discussions on Vande Bharat and Home Minister Amit Shah's Visit Possible
Sources suggest that the meeting may also discuss the proposed visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the flagging off of the Vande Bharat train from Katra to Srinagar by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 19th.
LG's Order: Interference in the Rights of the Elected Government?
Sources say that the Lieutenant Governor's decision to transfer officers is tantamount to weakening the elected government. The Omar government believes this decision reflects an intention to establish complete control of the bureaucracy by the Lieutenant Governor. This would limit the role of the elected government and legislators in the administration.
Who Holds the Authority Regarding Transfers?
Under the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, the Lieutenant Governor has significant administrative powers. However, after the formation of the elected government, the Chief Minister was granted the authority to transfer JKAS officers. The authority to transfer All India Service cadre officers still rests with the central government.
Elected Government Demands More Powers
The Omar government has sent a draft to the Ministry of Home Affairs to clarify the powers of the Jammu & Kashmir government. It demands the appointment of Deputy Commissioners and ensures complete control over JKAS officers by the elected government.
