Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said that the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act clearly defines the powers of the LG and the elected government, but acknowledged that minor confusion exists between Raj Bhavan and the administration, which will be resolved through official communication.
He also said the nomination of five Assembly members has been kept on hold due to a pending court case.
In an exclusive interview to a national news channel LG Sinha as per news agency JKNS, clarified his constitutional role and dispelled concerns about interference in governance matters, stating that he holds no charge of developmental departments in Jammu and Kashmir.
“I want to make it absolutely clear, and I say this with full responsibility, apart from law and order, police, and policy matters, I do not have charge of any other department,” LG Sinha said, as per news agency JKNS.
“All departments related to development be it finance, education, health, power, or agriculture are under the government’s purview. There is no obstruction from my side. Any proposal that serves public interest and is brought by the government, I approve it.”
On the issue of governance powers (Business Rules), LG Sinha said, “The State Reorganisation Act clearly defines the powers of the Lieutenant Governor and the elected government, including the Chief Minister. Any minor confusion that exists is being addressed through formal communication between the government and the Raj Bhavan. I believe this clarity will emerge soon.”
When asked about the delay in nominating five members by LG to the legislative assembly under the Reorganisation Act amemded in 2023, LG Sinha said the matter was intentionally kept on hold due to ongoing litigation.
“Some political parties have moved the court claiming that this power lies with the elected government, not the LG. I decided not to proceed amidst the legal dispute. Once the court gives its ruling, we will move ahead with the nominations,” he stated.
The Lieutenant Governor’s remarks aim to clarify misconceptions and underline that his office operates strictly within the framework of the law and in coordination with the elected government. (JKNS)
