Ruling National Conference in UT of J&K has dismissed rumours about a possible cabinet expansion in Jammu & Kashmir, contending that this is the prerogative of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and it will be done at 'appropriate time'.
At present there are five ministers in the Council led by Chief Minisetr Omar Abdullah. Pertinently, even though Congress is alliance partner in the Omar led government, it has not taken any ministerial berth as yet and is supporting the government without its share . It is a voluntary decision of the party , whcih many describe as a strategic one to gain political mileage out of it. The Congress had contended at the time of formation of government that it will not accept any ministry until statehood is restored to it.
Now that Congress has already intensified its stir in support of this demand and this protest has now reached Delhi, speculations are rife that Union government might take final call on the matter . This has triggered the speculations of the possibilty of expansion and some changes to be effected in the cabinet by the government. However, NC for now has put this to rest.
National Conference Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq today dismissed the rumours and asserted that such decisions lie solely with the Chief Minister. He also hit out at the Lieutenant Governor’s office, accusing it of creating unnecessary roadblocks in governance.“Let me clarify, cabinet expansion is entirely the Chief Minister’s prerogative. He will do it when he deems fit. Unnecessary rumours must stop.” He saidHe added that across the country, including at the Centre and in several states, there are vacant cabinet positions.
“It’s nothing unusual. The Chief Minister will expand the cabinet whenever he feels it is the right time.”On the issue of pending business rules, Sadiq said the file had been sent to the LG’s office twice, but was still awaiting clearance despite everything being in order.
“The LG should respect and honour the people’s mandate. He must stop sitting on this important file. It is not fair to create bureaucratic hurdles that obstruct the functioning of an elected government.”
He urged the LG not to delay the approval of the business rules and stated that governance in Jammu & Kashmir was being negatively affected by constant interference.“I strongly appeal to the Raj Bhawan to stop interfering in public matters. Unwarranted delays hold up crucial work and increase the suffering of ordinary people,” he said.
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