‘Issue was the main demand in today’s civil society meet, wonder why Jammu people didn’t ask those who abolished decades old practice’
TDD Correspondent
Jammu, (TDD) Minister for Tribal Affairs Javaid Rana today reiterated that the Omar Abdullah-led government is fully committed to restoring the iconic Darbar Move, a centuries-old administrative practice that was once a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s political culture.
Speaking to the media in Jammu, Rana said that the Darbar Move was partially reinstated this year, with plans for its complete return next year.
During the first cabinet meeting under Omar Abdullah’s leadership, the decision to bring back the Darbar Move was outlined, a move that many view as a significant step in restoring the region’s traditional governance practices.
“In the first cabinet meeting, Omar Abdullah stated clearly that this year we will see a partial restoration of the Darbar Move, and next year, it will be fully reinstated,” said Rana. “The Darbar Move has been an integral part of our culture for decades and it is time for it to return.”
However, Rana also expressed concern over the apparent lack of public outcry regarding the abolition of the Darbar Move. He questioned why the people of Jammu have remained silent about the discontinuation of the practice, asking, “Why are the people of Jammu silent about those who abolished the Darbar Move? Why is there no reaction from the public? This is a matter of importance for the people of Jammu, and they should be vocal about reclaiming this practice.”
Rana’s remarks came after today’s meeting between Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and prominent civil society members, during which various issues concerning the region’s governance, development and security were discussed. The Darbar Move, which traditionally involved the shifting of government offices between Jammu and Srinagar twice a year, was discontinued after the revocation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the state in 2019. The decision was controversial, with critics arguing it would affect the region’s administrative efficiency and historical traditions.
Rana’s comments reflect the broader political dialogue in Jammu and Kashmir, where the restoration of the Darbar Move is likely to be a key issue for the National Conference as it navigates its post-Article 370 political strategy. By focusing on this issue, Omar Abdullah’s government seeks to reassert the region’s unique identity and administrative customs, which were disrupted by recent political changes.
As the National Conference works to strengthen its political presence, the Darbar Move remains a powerful symbol of the region’s historical governance and a rallying point for those advocating for a return to past practices that they feel best serve the interests of the people.(TDD)
