J&K facing dual governance challenge: Dy CM

Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Tuesday said that the elected government in the Union Territory is operating under significant challenges but remains committed to safeguarding the rights and interests of the people with its “limited powers”.

Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal district, Choudhary highlighted the limitations of the current governance model, saying, “We do not have a free hand, as there is a dual governance system in place — one elected by the people and another appointed by the Centre. Yet, we will not shy away from our responsibilities.”

Referring to the ongoing political and administrative complexities, he added, “Two governments are running here — one chosen by the people and the other nominated. Despite this, we are determined to serve.”

Choudhary emphasised that the National Conference-led government is actively working to address public concerns despite various obstacles. “Some people want us to resign, but we are not the ones to walk away. We are followers of Sher-e-Kashmir. We will continue to struggle and fight for the people’s rights. We won’t turn our backs,” he asserted.

Responding to criticism regarding the government’s performance, the Deputy CM reminded that the administration is still in the early stages of its term. “We will fulfil all the promises made by National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. We are in the midst of a struggle. We have been given a mandate for five years, not 10 months, to fulfil our election promises. Then you can ask us which promises we fulfilled and which we did not,” he said.

Choudhary also expressed hope that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would soon fulfill his promise of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. He further urged the Centre to announce a substantial relief package for the region in light of recent flood damages.

Taking a swipe at the previous PDP-BJP coalition, Choudhary questioned the implementation of the Rs 80,000 crore package announced after the 2014 floods. “Before questioning us, ask the former PDP-BJP leadership what happened to that package. In Kashmir, people didn’t see the benefits of those funds,” he said, adding, “Today, Jammu and Kashmir needs double that amount.”

He also criticised BJP leaders for repeatedly targeting the National Conference. “I don’t know — perhaps they have internal conflicts and then vent their anger on us. But give us the status of a full-fledged state, and we will show you what real governance looks like,” Choudhary stated.