SRINAGAR, May 10 : Omar Abdullah has described the current administrative setup in Jammu and Kashmir as the “worst form of government”, while reiterating his demand for the restoration of full statehood to the Union Territory.
Speaking to PTI, Abdullah said there has been some progress in bridging differences with the Centre over transaction of business rules, but stressed that the present dual system of governance is “a recipe for disaster”. He argued that a Union Territory with an assembly cannot be equated with smaller administrative units and questioned the logic of the current arrangement.
“Can you not see the difference between a territory with 30 MLAs and one with 90 MLAs? After everything that has happened, how can this system still be considered beneficial for Jammu and Kashmir?” he said, referring to recent security concerns, including the Pahalgam incident.
The Chief Minister said governance in a region of Jammu and Kashmir’s size requires full responsibility to rest with elected representatives. He reiterated that a Union Territory with an assembly is “the worst form of government” and said key institutions such as universities, SKIMS and the Power Development Corporation should ideally be under elected control.
Abdullah also commented on administrative policies, stating that those above the Below Poverty Line should not receive subsidised electricity but instead pay market rates.
Highlighting governance reforms, he cited initiatives such as the restoration of the Darbar Move, free education, and free bus travel for women as key achievements of his government. He said these measures have helped strengthen connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir regions.
On regional relations, Abdullah said the biannual capital shift has helped reduce the emotional gap between Jammu and Kashmir, enabling better integration among government employees from both regions.
He also criticised attempts to create division between Jammu and Srinagar, saying such efforts have failed and will continue to fail.
On the issue of Kashmiri Pandits, Abdullah said their return depends on restoring a sense of security and questioned political parties over their continued stay in relief camps. He credited former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for establishing the Jagti township and job reservations for migrants but said further efforts have been lacking.
Responding to questions on dynastic politics, Abdullah said political background only opens the door, but performance determines success, adding that electoral defeats are not limited to any one type of leadership. He also dismissed speculation about a cabinet reshuffle in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it “absolute lies.”
