The Kashmir Dialogues
CM says regularization of daily wagers tops government’s agenda; vows to bring back old administrative traditions
Jammu, Oct 16 (TKD): In a major announcement marking a return to Jammu and Kashmir’s administrative legacy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday declared that the historic Darbar Move practice will soon be revived, reaffirming his government’s commitment to restoring old traditions and addressing public expectations.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Omar Abdullah urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet to expedite the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, a promise he said the people have been waiting too long to see fulfilled.
“From the day our government was sworn in, we have been trying our best to work for the people. It is a different experience to serve those who placed their trust in us,” Omar said. “We had hoped that the Centre would fulfill its commitment to restore statehood within the first year, but that has not happened yet. Today, I urge Prime Minister Modi and his cabinet colleagues to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood without further delay.”
The Chief Minister also highlighted that the regularization of daily wagers remains his government’s foremost priority.
“This is a historic step, and we are committed to ensuring it is taken forward with sincerity,” he stated.
Confirming the decision on the Darbar Move, Omar Abdullah revealed that the state cabinet has already cleared the proposal, and approval from the Lieutenant Governor has been secured.
“The government is all set to revive the practice soon,” he added.
The Darbar Move—a 150-year-old administrative tradition initiated in 1872 by Maharaja Gulab Singh—involved the biannual shifting of the capital between Srinagar in summer and Jammu in winter to ensure accessibility and balance between both regions. The practice was discontinued in 2021 by then Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, citing administrative efficiency.
With its revival, Omar Abdullah’s government seeks to blend heritage with governance, signaling a symbolic return to the region’s administrative identity.
