LG Manoj Sinha Defends JKAS Transfers, Says Actions Within Constitutional Framework
Srinagar: Amid growing criticism from ruling coalition legislators over the recent administrative reshuffle in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday defended his administration’s decision to transfer 48 JKAS officers, asserting that all actions were undertaken strictly within the constitutional framework of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019.
Responding to concerns raised by 46 MLAs of the coalition government over the political and administrative implications of the mass transfers, LG Sinha clarified his position.
“I want to make it absolutely clear — the Parliament passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act in 2019, and I have acted entirely within the domain defined by that Act,” he stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to constitutional principles, the Lieutenant Governor added,
“I have never overstepped my constitutional boundaries. I am fully aware of my jurisdiction and responsibilities. I have never violated them, nor will I ever do so.”
Coalition MLAs Express Dismay, NC and Congress Issue Stern Warning
Earlier in the day, the ruling coalition led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened an emergency meeting to discuss recent developments, including the JKAS transfers and the Waqf (Amendment) Bill passed by Parliament.
National Conference (NC) Chief Spokesperson and MLA Zadibal, Tanvir Sadiq, along with Congress leader and MLA Bandipora Nizam-ud-Din Bhat, addressed the media following the meeting.
“Today’s meeting focused on key issues, including the Waqf Bill passed in Parliament. This Bill is against Muslims and minorities in the country, and we oppose it. Another critical issue was the mandate given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the NC-led government. We have once again demanded that the Government of India respect this mandate—it is non-negotiable,” said Tanvir Sadiq.
The two leaders stressed that their appeal to the Centre should not be misunderstood as weakness.
“Centre should not misconstrue our cooperation as weakness. We are making this appeal for the last time—not as a request but as a firm warning: Do not push us to the wall,” they cautioned.
The developments signal deepening tensions between the elected government and the LG administration, raising questions over jurisdiction, mandate, and administrative authority in Jammu and Kashmir.
