National Conference Demands J&K Statehood, Criticizes Dual Power Structure

swift Summary

• National Conference’s Criticism: The National Conference sharpened its stance against the “dual power center” in Jammu & Kashmir, criticizing Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha for hindering effective governance. The party reiterated its demand for the restoration of statehood.
• Key Points by NC Legislator Salman Sagar: Highlighted that while LG sinha claimed he controlled only police operations, his authority also extends to IAS officer transfers and promotions, effectively giving him control over administrative functions. This duality allegedly paralyzes governance and public grievance resolution.
• Dual Power Centre Debate: LG Manoj Sinha stated that all advancement-related departments fall under elected government prerogative, while his role is limited to law and order duties such as police deployment.
• political Frustration: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary accused the BJP of running a proxy government despite NC winning votes in J&K. Opposition parties also criticized Omar Abdullah’s leadership as ineffective in addressing promises like free electricity or permanent employment for daily wage workers.

!File photo: J&K CM Omar Abdullah (Photo: ANI)

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The National Conference has reignited an ongoing debate regarding governance effectiveness under J&K’s current political framework, where both an elected government and a non-elected Lieutenant Governor share administrative powers. This dual power arrangement raises significant questions about accountability and clarity in decision-making within a region facing complex security challenges.

The party’s call for statehood restoration stems from claims of curtailed autonomy making responsive governance difficult-a concern magnified by public frustration over unresolved grievances despite elections being held. On the other hand, LG Manoj Sinha’s clarification on departmental responsibilities underlines apparent efforts to reduce friction between centralized authority and local administration.

This debate holds broader implications for institutional trust and democratic function in Jammu & Kashmir, especially given past promises from national leaders regarding renewal of statehood-an issue likely to impact voter sentiment deeply if unmet or delayed further.