JAMMU, Dec 12: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced today that his government will reinstate the Darbar Move, asserting that Jammu’s distinct character will not fade.
This decision reverses the 2021 ruling by the Lieutenant Governor, who aimed to save Rs 200 crore annually by abolishing the bi-annual Darbar Move.
The announcement followed a meeting with key members of Jammu’s Civil Society, marking the first such meeting since Omar assumed office on October 16 this year.
Traditionally, the Civil Secretariat—the government’s seat—operated for six months from November to April in Jammu for winter and six months from May to October in Srinagar for summer.
However, in 2021, the Lieutenant Governor halted this practice, leading to year-round operations from both Civil Secretariats while Administrative Secretaries moved based on need.
Omar raised questions about why the Darbar Move issue didn’t come up during campaign discussions for the Assembly elections, noting that it only gained attention after the election results and government formation.
He emphasized that the National Conference included the Darbar Move in its election manifesto and public meetings, assuring citizens of its restoration due to Jammu’s significance.
During the Chief Minister’s three-and-a-half-hour meeting with Civil Society members and senior administrative officials, participants voiced various concerns, and Omar listened attentively.
He commented on the necessity of such meetings to gather genuine feedback, which often lacks within the government due to surrounding praise.
He committed to convening similar meetings twice yearly in both regions and noted that all raised issues would be documented, with updates provided in future meetings.
The event included Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, several ministers, and advisors, as well as senior civil and police officials.
This effort forms part of the Chief Minister’s outreach to tackle the challenges various community sections face, including businesspeople, lawyers, and tourism professionals.
Omar assured attendees that his government would address all their concerns in due course, emphasizing his representation of every citizen in Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of political affiliations.
He addressed worries about regional biases, stating, “This Government is not just for those who supported the National Conference; it serves every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir.”
He also highlighted his decision to appoint a Deputy Chief Minister from Jammu to reaffirm the region’s importance within his administration.
The meeting brought together various stakeholders, including representatives from women’s organizations, NGOs, ex-servicemen, Kashmiri Pandits, and others.
Omar expressed concern over Jammu’s limited share of the tourism industry and shared plans to diversify the economy.
He noted the potential to promote tourism with the significant number of annual pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi, suggesting that even a small percentage redirected could transform Jammu’s economy.
Omar announced plans for a craft and culture fair, inspired by Surajkund Mela, to showcase the region’s rich heritage and enhance tourism.
He aimed for collaboration among industries, farmers, cultural representatives, and tourism stakeholders.
