SRINAGAR: The formulation of business rules for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir remains a work in progress, with the government yet to finalise the framework aimed at ensuring better governance and transparency.
A committee, headed by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, has been constituted to oversee the process. However, progress appears slow, raising questions and concerns among stakeholders.
Business rules are crucial for streamlining administrative functions, defining responsibilities, and ensuring accountability across various government departments. In the context of Jammu and Kashmir, these rules hold particular significance as they would establish a foundation for transparent and efficient governance under the Union Territory’s administrative structure.
The absence of finalised business rules has led to procedural ambiguities, hindering smooth decision-making.
While the government has taken steps by forming a committee led by the Deputy Chief Minister, there is little clarity on the progress. According to sources, the draft business rules are yet to be prepared, and no official communication has been issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) to outline a roadmap or timeframe for their completion.
Once the draft rules are ready, they will undergo vetting by the cabinet, led by Omar Abdullah, before being sent to the Lieutenant Governor’s office for final approval. “This stage could potentially lead to friction between political and administrative authorities, particularly if there are disagreements over provisions in the rules,” said an observer, cautioning that such a scenario could pose a challenge to the Omar Abdullah-led government.
“By finalising and implementing the business rules promptly, the Jammu and Kashmir government has an opportunity to set a benchmark for governance in the region. Clear and well-structured business rules could pave the way for more accountable, efficient, and transparent administration, fostering trust and improving the lives of the people,” the observer added. [KNT]
