Thu Dec 05 20:01:08 UTC 2024: ## Growing Friction Between Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor

**Srinagar, December 6, 2024** – Fifty days after the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir took office, tensions are escalating between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Disagreements over key appointments and administrative transfers are fueling the conflict.

A major point of contention is the continued appointment of Advocate-General D.C. Raina. Despite resigning in October, Mr. Abdullah overruled the resignation, a decision reportedly blocked by the Raj Bhavan (the Lieutenant Governor’s office). The High Court has noted the absence of an Advocate-General, highlighting the impasse. Government sources claim the Raj Bhavan directly prevented Mr. Raina’s continued service.

Further fueling the friction, recent administrative transfers initiated by Mr. Sinha have angered Mr. Abdullah. Four officers, including three IAS officers, were transferred, a move described by sources as an attempt to undermine the elected government’s authority, as Mr. Sinha’s mandate only covers IAS transfers. In response, Mr. Abdullah reportedly ordered the attachment of a JKAS officer to the General Administration Department.

The conflict stems from a lack of clearly defined business rules outlining the respective mandates of the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, and Council of Ministers in the newly formed Union Territory. The government is currently seeking expert review and Union government approval for these rules, which are crucial for resolving power-sharing ambiguities.

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