SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Sunday denied reports that ministers had been asked to resign ahead of a possible cabinet expansion, saying no such instruction had been issued.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at Kali Mata Mandir in Bahu Fort on the first day of Navratra, Choudhary rejected claims that all ministers had submitted their resignations to the chief minister in anticipation of a cabinet reshuffle.
“As the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, I am standing here at the feet of Mata and making it clear that no minister has been asked to resign,” he said.
Choudhary said the final decision on the proposed changes would rest with the National Conference president and the chief minister. Those chosen for induction would join the government, while those selected for removal would have to leave, he said.
He also urged media organisations not to give undue prominence to speculation surrounding the possible cabinet changes.
Referring to developments in New Delhi, Choudhary also mentioned the police action against demonstrators that disrupted the CJP’s planned protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar on October 10.
