Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday reaffirmed that all administrative decisions taken under his leadership, including the recent transfer of 48 Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, have been carried out within the constitutional framework. His remarks came in response to sharp criticism from 46 MLAs of the ruling coalition, who termed the transfers politically motivated and a challenge to the elected government’s authority.
“I want to make it absolutely clear—the Parliament passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act in 2019, and I have acted entirely within the domain defined by that Act,” Sinha stated. “I have never overstepped my constitutional boundaries. I am fully aware of my jurisdiction and responsibilities. I have never violated them, nor will I ever do so.”
The Lieutenant Governor’s response follows an emergency meeting of the ruling alliance, convened by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, where coalition partners passed two resolutions—one opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and another condemning recent administrative decisions.
Addressing the media after the meeting, NC Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, accompanied by Congress leader and MLA Bandipora, Nizam-ud-Din Bhat, expressed strong opposition to the Centre’s policies.
“The Waqf Bill is against the interests of Muslims and minorities in the country, and we reject it. Additionally, the mandate given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir must be respected—it is non-negotiable,” Sadiq said.
He further cautioned the Centre, stating, “Our cooperation should not be mistaken for weakness. This is our final appeal—not a request, but a firm warning: Do not push us to the wall.”
The political standoff between the elected government and the LG administration appears to be deepening, with both sides standing firm. Observers anticipate heightened tensions in the coming days as the situation unfolds.(DD)
