New Delhi, Oct 24: Following a security review meeting led by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram emphasized the urgent need to restore full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He criticized the current governance structure, stating that while the people have elected a chief minister and government to ensure their security, the chief minister lacks the necessary authority to fulfill this role.
In a post on X, Chidambaram highlighted the implications of the LG’s oversight in a meeting concerning law and order in the region. He noted the absence of the elected chief minister from the discussion, questioning whether he had been invited. Chidambaram pointed out that, under the existing legal framework for Jammu and Kashmir, the police and public order fall under the jurisdiction of the LG, underscoring the limitations placed on the elected government. He stated, “The people have elected a chief minister and government to look after their security, among other things, but the chief minister has no authority. This is why J&K is described as half a state.”
Chidambaram reiterated the pressing need for the immediate restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that this step is vital for the region’s governance and stability.
Sinha’s security review meeting on Wednesday was prompted by a recent deadly terror attack in the Gagangir area of Ganderbal district, which claimed the lives of seven individuals, including a local doctor and six non-local laborers. The attack was attributed to the TRF, a shadow outfit of the Lashkar-e-Taiba. During the meeting, Sinha directed a comprehensive security audit of infrastructure projects, the establishment of round-the-clock security checkpoints at strategic locations, and increased night patrolling and area domination efforts in the Valley.
Attendees at the meeting included Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Principal Secretary of the Home Department Chandraker Bharti, Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order) Vijay Kumar, and other senior officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The LG emphasized the need for stringent measures to enhance security around key infrastructure projects and construction camps to ensure the safety of workers. He also stressed the importance of regular coordination meetings with project implementing agencies to maintain an effective security framework.
