Srinagar: In a candid interview with a New Delhi-based media outlet, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep dissatisfaction over the current administrative framework of the Union Territory, calling it the “worst model of governance” devised in the country.
Abdullah, in his remarks, said he prefers to deal with the ground reality rather than speculate on hypotheticals. He pointed out that the current dual-power structure in Jammu and Kashmir—where an elected assembly functions under the shadow of an unelected authority—lacks any governance logic. “While there may be political compulsions behind this structure, it fails to hold up from an administrative or logical standpoint,” he noted.
The Chief Minister made it clear that he took up the role by choice, not compulsion. “This isn’t about obligation. I wanted to do this job,” he asserted.
On being excluded from key security review meetings, Abdullah said he had no complaints. “If I don’t have the authority to influence decisions, then what’s the point of sitting there just to share blame? I won’t be part of any meeting merely for symbolic presence,” he said, adding that such tokenism only serves to deflect responsibility rather than enable meaningful governance.
Abdullah also criticised TV commentators and panelists who have called for his resignation. “These studio warriors are clueless and cowardly. It’s easier for them to call for my head than to question the actual power structures responsible,” he said.
Abdullah’s remarks reflect growing frustration among elected representatives in J&K who feel their mandate is being overshadowed by bureaucratic control and restricted autonomy. [KNT]
