Darbar move symbolises J&K’s inclusivity, to be revived: CM Omar

Times News NetworkJammu: Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said his govt would restore the Darbar Move as the biannual administrative tradition, he asserted, “symbolises unity and inclusivity”, and ensures that governance remains accessible to both Jammu and Kashmir regions.The practice of moving the civil secretariat and other govt offices to Jammu in winter and back to Srinagar in summer was started nearly 150 years ago by the then Dogra rulers and continued after Independence. However, LG Manoj Sinha stopped the practice in June 2021, citing the administration’s complete transition to e-office. The decision would save Rs 200 crore annually, it was claimed.“Jammu has its own importance and we will not allow its uniqueness to diminish,” the CM told reporters after his first interaction with members of Jammu’s civil society. A similar interaction with civil society representatives in Kashmir was held on Oct 30.Addressing concerns over regional bias, Omar affirmed that his govt represented all citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of their political affiliations. “Despite attempts by some to play with emotions of Jammu after the elections and harping on the issue of regional divide, we have consistently prioritised inclusivity and equity,” he said, citing his move to appoint a deputy CM from Jammu. The decision, he asserted, was taken consciously, not out of compulsion but to underscore that Jammu was as integral to his govt as Kashmir.Assuring to bring back the Darbar Move, Omar said: “Some things cannot be weighed merely in financial terms… The role of govt is not to focus solely on profit. Our responsibility is to serve and ensure balanced development across regions… Ending the Darbar Move would only alienate the people of the two regions and harm the collective unity we strive to preserve.”He also announced plans to establish a craft & culture fair modelled on the Surajkund Mela in Faridabad to showcase the region’s rich heritage and boost tourism.

Darbar move symbolises J&Ks inclusivity, to be revived: CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah pledged to reinstate the Darbar Move, emphasizing its symbolic importance for regional unity and accessibility of governance. He addressed concerns about regional bias, highlighting his inclusive approach and commitment to Jammu's development.

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