Thu Apr 03 20:08:20 UTC 2025: **Jammu and Kashmir: Tensions Rise Between Elected Government and Lieutenant Governor**

SRINAGAR, INDIA – A rift is widening between the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Territory’s Lieutenant Governor (LG), Manoj Sinha, threatening to overshadow Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s upcoming visit. The conflict centers on the LG’s transfer of 48 Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, a move Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s government deems a violation of its authority.

The National Conference, the party leading the government, has called an emergency meeting for Friday to strategize its response. A senior leader described the LG’s action as a “disrespect” of the people’s mandate and an overreach of power. They claim the J&K Reorganization Act of 2019 grants the elected government jurisdiction over JKAS officer transfers, reserving only IAS officer transfers for the LG. The LG’s office countered that the transferred officers also perform magistrate duties, falling under law and order, which is within the LG’s purview.

Chief Minister Abdullah has written to Home Minister Shah, who is scheduled to arrive Sunday for a three-day security review, expressing his deep concern. The escalating tensions highlight a long-simmering power struggle between the elected government and the LG’s office, exemplified by the six-month vacancy for Advocate General.

Adding to the government’s frustration is the Centre’s inaction on restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, a promise allegedly made after the government’s formation last year. The Centre has also ignored the assembly’s resolution seeking special status and dialogue with elected representatives. The National Conference has indicated these issues will also be addressed at Friday’s meeting. The upcoming visit by Mr. Shah will now likely be overshadowed by this escalating political crisis.

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