Plans Underway to Overcome Asset Shortage as CM Aims to Boost Revenue and Infrastructure Growth in Delhi and Chandigarh
Omar Abdullah Highlights Unequal Asset Distribution to J&K, Assures Resolution Through Mutual Understanding
JAMMU, Mar 18: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged that the Union Territory received fewer assets during the apportionment process following its bifurcation in 2019 but emphasized that the distribution was carried out by an Advisory Committee under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act. He assured that the matter would be resolved through mutual understanding rather than prolonged legal disputes, as seen in the case of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Responding to National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq’s concerns over discrimination in asset allocation, Omar admitted that Jammu and Kashmir had received a smaller share but stressed that his government was actively working to address the issue.
Expansion of J&K Bhavans in Delhi
To tackle accommodation challenges, Omar announced that the government had acquired a 3179.58 square meter plot in Dwarka, Delhi, on a perpetual leasehold basis from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for constructing a new J&K Bhavan. Additionally, the possibility of expanding facilities at Prithviraj Road is being explored.
He assured that J&K Houses outside the Union Territory would reflect local culture and heritage, similar to Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh Bhawans, and that Kashmiri and Dogra cuisines would be prominently featured.
Concerns Over J&K Properties in Chandigarh
NC MLA Nazir Gurezi raised concerns that Jammu and Kashmir’s entire property in Chandigarh had been allotted to Ladakh, questioning where J&K residents seeking treatment at PGI Chandigarh would stay. In response, Omar clarified that structures in Sector 17, Chandigarh, remain with J&K and will be modified and reconstructed to accommodate patients from the UT.
Encroachments on J&K Properties
The Chief Minister revealed that a one kanal and 11.2 marlas property owned by the J&K Government in Delhi had been illegally occupied by unauthorized individuals. However, authorities successfully evicted the encroachers, and the Resident Commissioner now has possession of the property.
Financial Liabilities and Ladakh’s Share
Omar also stated that financial liabilities amounting to Rs 2,504.46 crore need to be transferred to Ladakh, and discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ladakh administration are ongoing to resolve the issue.
The bifurcation of J&K into two Union Territories—Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh—on August 5, 2019, had led to the division of assets and properties. Omar reiterated that while J&K had received a smaller share, the government remained committed to securing fair distribution through dialogue.
