Omar Abdullah says J&K ministerial list is set and urges MLAs to stop lobbying

UPDATE - follow-up to J&K Cabinet expansion, reshuffle to take place next week: CM: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on Saturday that his council of ministers will be expanded and reshuffled within the first two to three days of next week. Speaking in Srinagar, Mr. Abdullah stated he met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Lok Bhawan to request time for the exercise and to check on Mr. Sinha's health after his recent illness.

Lobbying

Mr. Abdullah urged party MLAs and colleagues to stop sending messages, making phone calls, or knocking on doors to seek ministerial posts. He noted that the final list was already made after consultations with National Conference president Farooq Abdullah. He specifically asked members to stop sending lengthy WhatsApp messages and biodatas, asking them to be patient instead.

Other Issues

Addressing other topics, Mr. Abdullah said his government will approach the Ministry of External Affairs to help stranded Kashmiri pilgrims in Saudi Arabia facing high airfares due to flight cancellations, adding that the state could arrange funds from its own budget if needed. Regarding the delegation of powers under the National Dental Commission Act, 2023, he stated the matter must be examined to verify jurisdiction and suggested asking health minister Sakina Itoo. He also declined to comment on Chinese patrolling reports in Ladakh because Jammu and Kashmir no longer shares a direct border with the region.

Context

Chief ministers routinely consult party leadership and state governors or lieutenant governors before carrying out ministerial changes. Public appeals by leaders for party members to stop lobbying are common when cabinet positions are limited and final decisions have been made.