Wed Jul 02 18:20:26 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article version of the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jammu and Kashmir is criticizing the elected government for failing to appoint an Advocate General nine months after assuming office. The PDP argues that this absence is especially problematic given critical constitutional matters related to August 5th pending in court and ongoing cross-border threats. They believe the lack of legal aid and advice is stalling justice and accountability. The National Conference (NC) took over as Chief Minister in October of last year and permitted Advocate General D.C. Raina, who was appointed in 2019, to continue representing the UT. However, Raina’s recent absences have led to speculation that his resignation was accepted. The PDP emphasizes the importance of legal intervention to maintain faith in the democratic process and the credibility of the justice system, particularly with political instability and a large backlog of cases.
**News Article:**
**J&K Government Faces Criticism for Advocate General Vacancy**
*Srinagar – July 2, 2025 -* The elected government in Jammu and Kashmir is facing mounting criticism for its failure to appoint an Advocate General, nine months after taking office. The Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced strong concerns about the lack of legal representation for the Union Territory, especially amidst critical legal challenges.
“Nine months into an elected government, J&K still has no Advocate General,” stated PDP leader Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra, MLA from Pulwama. “At a time when critical constitutional matters stemming from August 5 are in courts, this vacuum is deliberate.”
The National Conference (NC), led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has allowed D.C. Raina, appointed by a former Governor in 2019, to continue representing the UT. However, Raina’s recent absences from court hearings have fueled speculation about his potential resignation.
The PDP contends that the absence of an Advocate General hinders justice, accountability, and healing, particularly in a border state facing cross-border threats. Mr. Parra emphasized the importance of legal intervention to maintain faith in the democratic process and the credibility of the criminal justice system.
“With gripping political instability and thousands of cases pending in courts, the absence of a political process makes legal intervention and aid essential,” Mr. Parra said.
Several courts in Jammu and Kashmir have remarked that the Advocate General’s input is crucial for adjudicating key matters. The delay in filling this position is raising concerns about the government’s commitment to the rule of law.
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