‘Institutions Taken Away From Us’: Omar Targets LG Administration | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday accused the Lieutenant Governor administration of hollowing out the authority of the elected government and running Jammu and Kashmir from Raj Bhawan by empowering officers without accountability.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the National Conference Working Committee, Abdullah said key institutions remain outside the control of the elected government, undermining democratic authority in the Union Territory.

“SKIMS is not with us. There are huge vacancies there. BGSB University and IUST are not with the elected government. Even the Information Department is not with us. What was the reason to appoint an IAS officer there when the post was being held by a JKAS officer,” he asked.

He said confusion must end and the Reorganisation Act should be implemented in letter and spirit. “We are not crossing any jurisdiction. But don’t tell us there is no interference when bulldozers are running without our consent. Officers are getting courage from somewhere else. We all know where it is coming from,” he said.

The Chief Minister reiterated his demand for immediate restoration of statehood, accusing the Centre of delaying the process under the garb of security incidents. “Pahalgam attack and Delhi attack are being used as excuses. Law and security are not our mandate. Do not shift blame on us to deny statehood,” he said.

On power supply, Abdullah said his government is committed to providing electricity but responsibility must be shared. “We want to give electricity. But people must pay bills honestly. We are installing metres so we can give free units as promised. Without metres, promises can’t be delivered,” he said.

On reservation, he said the Cabinet subcommittee report has been completed and will soon be placed before the Cabinet for discussion and action.

Addressing the issue of daily wagers, the Chief Minister said the problem was inherited and not created by the present government. “We have sought time. We are working on it. This issue will not be ignored,” he said.

Taking aim at the PDP, Omar Abdullah accused the party of political deceit. “PDP told people it would stop BJP, then allied with BJP. That was the biggest fraud in recent political history,” he said.

Responding to allegations of inaction, Omar Abdullah asked critics to wait before judging his government. “Evaluate us after five years. We have not abandoned our manifesto,” he said.

On cabinet expansion, he said the issue would be handled in consultation with the party president. [KNT]