Just hours after being sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has taken decisive steps to ensure a more people-friendly governance style. In his first directive to the Jammu and Kashmir police, he emphasized the importance of minimizing “public inconvenience” during VIP movements, setting a tone of accessibility and service.
Abdullah stated, “I have spoken to the DG, Jammu and Kashmir police, that there is to be no ‘green corridor’ or traffic stoppage when I move anywhere by road.” He further instructed the police to keep the use of sirens to a minimum and to avoid “stick-waving” and “aggressive gestures” during his travels. He highlighted, “In everything our conduct must be people-friendly. We are here to serve the people & not to inconvenience them.”
This focus on reducing public disruption aligns with Abdullah’s long-standing commitment to a more inclusive approach to governance. His plea for a less disruptive style of VIP movement resonates deeply with residents tired of the traffic halts and heavy-handed security measures often associated with such events. He also urged his cabinet colleagues to adopt the same ethos, emphasizing that their conduct should reflect a dedication to serving the populace.
In a show of support, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Abdullah on his appointment, expressing optimism for future collaboration. “Congratulations to Omar Abdullah Ji on taking oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Wishing him the very best in his efforts to serve the people. The Centre will work closely with him and his team for J-K’s progress,” Modi tweeted.
The oath-taking ceremony took place at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, where Lieutenant Governor Manoj Saxena administered the oath to Abdullah and his council of ministers. Prior to the ceremony, Abdullah shared his vision for a cooperative relationship with the Union government, indicating a willingness to work together for the betterment of the region.
Omar Abdullah’s approach marks a significant shift in the relationship between government officials and the public, emphasizing accessibility and service over authority and disruption. As his tenure unfolds, many will be watching to see how these directives impact daily life in Jammu and Kashmir.
