Changes in Jammu and Kashmir Rules Explained by Government
The Indian government clarified that recent amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, are only clarifications of existing rules. The Ministry of Home Affairs updated the rules, expanding some powers of the Lieutenant Governor. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the move, linking it to upcoming elections. President Droupadi Murmu approved the changes, which took effect on July 12, 2024. The amendments involve procedures for finance, law, and administrative matters.
Details of the Amendments
The amendments to the Transaction of Business Rules include:
- Proposals requiring the Finance Department’s concurrence must be placed before the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary.
- Appointments of the Advocate-General and other law officers need approval from the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary and Chief Minister.
- Proposals for prosecution sanctions or appeals must be placed before the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary.
- Matters related to prisons, prosecution, and forensic science must be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor by the Home Department through the Chief Secretary.
- Proposals for posting and transfer of Administrative Secretaries and All India Services officers must be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor by the General Administration Department through the Chief Secretary.
