Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monday expressed concern over what he termed was the ‘hybrid governance system’ in the Union Territory, and warned officers against exploiting the loopholes in it.
Indicating that he has got positive signals with regard to restoration of J&K’s statehood, Omar said he has received assurances from the highest level at the Centre that commitments made to J&K, particularly with regard to governance model, will change soon.
Omar said that the words of the government must stand for something significant. “Our conduct will be closely watched by the people. If we claim one thing and do another, our word won’t count for anything then,” he said.
Omar made these assertions while addressing cabinet ministers and administrative secretaries in Civil Secretariat Srinagar.
“…I would [like to] tell you in no uncertain terms that there is zero tolerance for this [corruption]. But I am also acutely aware that we have unfortunately at the moment rather a hybrid system of operating. And I have a feeling, and I am going to say regardless of the consequences some may feel they can exploit the system for their advantage, that they can find loopholes in this system that we have in J&K at the moment. But please rest assured this is a temporary phase,” Omar Abdullah said.
About recent meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and others in New Delhi, Omar Abdullah said that he has received assurances at the highest level that the ongoing governance model of J&K will change soon.
“I have just come back from very successful meetings from New Delhi. I have received assurances at the highest level that the commitments made to J&K, particularly with regard to the governance model will change. And therefore, if there is anybody who believes that somehow that UT will shield you from the consequences of practices which go against this pledge, please remember the shield may last temporarily. But it is only temporary,” Omar Abdullah said.
“Once the full statehood to J&K is restored there will be no loopholes to exploit or any advantages to be taken by playing against one another,” said Omar Abdullah.
“We have taken a pledge, and that pledge must mean something,” he said, stressing that the credibility of J&K’s leaders and officials is crucial in maintaining public trust.
He urged officers to adhere to the values they have vowed to uphold, highlighting that leadership begins with personal integrity.
CM administers integrity pledge to ministers, officials
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday administered the integrity pledge to ministers and officials in the secretariat, reinforcing the commitment of the Union Territory government to integrity and transparency in public service.
The pledge ceremony took place in the Civil Secretariat here and was attended by several ministers and Administrative Secretaries along with departmental officers.
The officers stationed at Jammu joined through video conference from the Civil Secretariat there, while Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, Heads of Departments, and hundreds of schools participated from their district headquarters, ensuring widespread engagement across the region, an official spokesperson said.
The departments also organised similar pledge-taking ceremonies for their employees, further demonstrating their commitment to uphold integrity at all levels of public service.
“As we mark Vigilance Awareness Week from October 28 to November 3, I take great pride in reaffirming our unwavering commitment to a corruption-free Jammu and Kashmir. Eradicating corruption is more than a priority; it is a mission that drives us to introduce bold reforms, strengthen oversight, and empower citizens,” Abdullah said.
“Our goal is to build a governance model where every resource is utilized for the public good,” he added.
He emphasised the relevance of this year’s theme — ‘Culture of Integrity for Nation’s Prosperity’.
“Integrity is the cornerstone of any successful nation, and its impact on growth, welfare and progress is undeniable. Upon stepping into office, our newly elected government has made a firm pledge to create a governance system rooted in integrity, fairness, and honesty,” the chief minister said.
“Our mission is simple yet profound: to serve with honour and ensure that every decision benefits the people we represent,” he added.
He urged all participants to engage actively in the initiatives organised during this week.
