Modi Government’s Major Decision: Amendments Made in Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, Lieutenant Governor’s Powers Enhanced

The Modi government has made a significant decision regarding Jammu and Kashmir. Keeping in mind the upcoming assembly elections, the government has enhanced the powers of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in Jammu and Kashmir. Elections are expected to be held in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly after some time. 

Previously, under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act of 2019, amendments were made in Section 55. Following this, the authority for the transfer posting of officials will now lie with the Lieutenant Governor.

With this reform, the powers of the Lieutenant Governor will increase concerning police and public administration matters. Their scope of work will also expand. They will receive all powers in almost all areas, which may require the prior approval of the Finance Department. The Central Home Ministry has issued a notification providing this information. In which LG has more power.

Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) amended Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act to give more power to the Lieutenant Governor.

The MHA notifies the amended Rules under Section 55 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 inserting new Sections giving more power to the LG. pic.twitter.com/3gbaSTssNp

— ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2024

Amendments in the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act

Following amendments in the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, decisions regarding proposals related to police, public order, All India Services, and the Anti-Corruption Bureau can now be made by the Lieutenant Governor without the prior approval of the Finance Department.

New Sections Included in the Act

42A – Appointment Proposals in Departments of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs:

Proposals for the appointment of Advocate General and other officials in the departments of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs will now be submitted before the Lieutenant Governor by the Chief Secretary and the Chief Minister.

42B – Approval or Rejection of Actions and Filing Appeals:

Any application related to granting approval, rejection, or filing appeals will be presented before the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary, by the Law Department.

Omar Abdullah Questions Modi Government’s Decision

Omar Abdullah, the deputy chief of the National Conference, has raised questions regarding the Modi government’s decision to grant more powers to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. 

He stated that now, even the smallest appointment will require begging. Jammu and Kashmir should have an elected Chief Minister. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve the right to choose their best Chief Minister.