CM Omar’s promises under scrutiny as allies critics push political agendas in open letters

Ruhullah, Mehbooba, Malik spark controversy, exchange blame and demands

JAMMU: The recent surge in political correspondence among leaders in Jammu and Kashmir reflects an escalating power struggle following the formation of the new government.
This exchange of letters, initiated by prominent figures like Agha Ruhullah Mehdi, Mehbooba Mufti, and Mushaal Hussain Malik, highlights growing political maneuvering as these leaders attempt to assert influence in the evolving politics.
Analysts argue that these letters may serve more as tools for self-promotion than genuine expressions of public interest.
One notable example is Agha Ruhullah Mehdi, the MP aligned with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s government, who addressed a letter to the Chief Minister, reminding him of unfulfilled promises and urging him to prioritize critical issues.
This letter sparked significant media coverage, only to be followed by another high-profile letter from Mushaal Hussain Malik, wife of jailed Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) leader Yasin Malik. Her letter, addressed to Rahul Gandhi, emphasizes her husband’s ongoing legal troubles and the accusations he faces in connection with a terror funding case.
Mushaal’s letter intensified the conversation, followed shortly after by another letter from PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, who called for an official committee to investigate cases of individuals dismissed from their jobs over the past five years.
One of the Rajya Sabha members has been one of the more vocal critics of this “politics of letters.” He suggests that these communications are nothing more than publicity stunts aimed at furthering political agendas rather than addressing the needs of Jammu and Kashmir’s citizens.
These letters are fuelled with personal motives and lack any meaningful proposals for the common people.
A senior historian and a political figure further questioned Mehbooba Mufti’s latest demand for a committee to review job dismissals. He says that the Chief Minister lacks jurisdiction over several administrative departments, including the General Administration Department, raising questions about the efficacy of such a committee.
Mehbooba's suggestion that a committee be formed reflects an attempt to maintain political relevance rather than a realistic solution, he said .
Despite criticism, some positive outcomes have emerged from this political maneuvering. In response to pressure from both politicians and public sentiment, certain policies and decisions have shifted to benefit the broader population.
The age limit for the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services (JKAS) examination was extended by three years, allowing more candidates to participate.
Similarly, the recruitment age for the Jammu and Kashmir Police Constable exam was relaxed, and individuals from colder regions were granted the opportunity to take exams in November and December to accommodate seasonal challenges.

Updated On 11/13/2024 12:07:31 AM