SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged on Tuesday that Jammu and Kashmir received relatively fewer assets following its bifurcation in 2019 but emphasised that the distribution process was carried out by an Advisory Committee constituted under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act. He, however, assured that the issue would be resolved through mutual understanding rather than legal battles, unlike Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which continue to dispute their asset division in court.
Omar made these remarks in the Legislative Assembly while responding to a written question and supplementary queries from National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq, who alleged discrimination against Jammu and Kashmir in the apportionment of assets.
To address the issue of official accommodation, Omar informed the House that the government has acquired a 3,179.58-square-metre plot in Delhi’s Dwarka on a perpetual lease from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for constructing a Jammu and Kashmir Bhavan. Additionally, he said, the government is exploring the possibility of expanding accommodation at Prithviraj Road in Delhi.
Sadiq suggested that, like Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh Bhavans, Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage and cuisines should be showcased at J&K Houses outside the Union Territory. In response, Omar assured that J&K’s official buildings would reflect local culture and heritage, and Kashmiri and Dogra cuisines would be given priority. He also said that locals would be employed in these establishments.
Meanwhile, NC MLA Nazir Gurezi raised concerns over the transfer of J&K’s properties in Chandigarh to Ladakh, questioning where patients from Jammu and Kashmir seeking treatment at PGI Chandigarh would stay. Omar clarified that structures in Sector 17, Chandigarh, remain under J&K’s control and will be modified to accommodate such visitors after obtaining the necessary permissions.
He further revealed that a significant portion of the J&K Guest House at Chanakyapuri in Delhi had been allotted to Ladakh, leaving limited accommodation for J&K officials and visitors. Additionally, a property owned by J&K in Delhi, measuring one kanal and 11.2 marlas, had been illegally occupied but was recently reclaimed by the Resident Commissioner.
On financial liabilities, Omar stated that Rs 2,504.46 crore is to be transferred to Ladakh, and the matter has been taken up with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ladakh administration.
The Central Government had on August 5, 2019, bifurcated the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories—J&K and Ladakh—while also revoking the region’s special status.
