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The upcoming formation of the government in Jammu and Kashmir has been overshadowed by a series of orders issued by the Lieutenant Governor's (L-G) administration, sparking fierce criticism from political leaders. The orders, which came just days before the new legislature and Cabinet are set to be formed, have been perceived as an attempt to curtail the powers of the incoming Chief Minister and undermine the democratic process.
Two significant notifications issued within 24 hours have triggered the controversy. The first amended the recruitment guidelines for the Jammu and Kashmir Police (Gazetted) Service, assigning the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) the responsibility for direct recruitment while placing the Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) in charge of promotions. This move effectively removes the J&K Police from the control of the incoming Chief Minister, placing it firmly under the authority of the L-G.
The second order amended the recruitment rules under the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Decentralization and Recruitment) Act, 2010, empowering the Service Selection Board to handle recruitment for all Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), government companies, corporations, boards, and organizations substantially owned or controlled by the J&K government. This includes Class IV posts, making it difficult for the incoming government to fill vacant positions, even at the lowest levels.
National Conference (NC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah highlighted the severe lack of jobs in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the need for fresh recruits in government offices, hospitals, and schools. He stated that the NC's priority would be to unite Jammu and Kashmir and end hatred.
CPI(M) leader and MLA-elect Tarigami voiced strong opposition to the L-G's orders, calling them 'unwarranted' and demanding their 'immediate rollback'. He argued that issuing such orders just before the formation of the new legislature and Cabinet undermines their significance and disrespects the democratic process. Tarigami questioned the timing of the orders, suggesting that such matters should have been addressed during the previous years under Central rule, and should be left for the elected representatives to handle.
The L-G's actions have raised concerns about the future of democracy in Jammu and Kashmir, where the elected government's ability to effectively function and implement its policies is being jeopardized. The controversy underscores the ongoing tension between the L-G's administration and the incoming Chief Minister, highlighting a potential turf war over the latter's limited powers. The situation necessitates a resolution that upholds democratic principles and allows the newly elected government to operate with autonomy.
Source: NC’s Farooq Abdullah, CPI(M)‘s Tarigami slam new L-G orders ahead of government formation