Attempts to exploit system futile: Omar Abdullah

Srinagar, Oct 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday delivered a strong message against corruption, stating that while some may try to exploit loopholes in Jammu and Kashmir’s governance framework to evade accountability, these attempts are short-lived. He emphasized that such loopholes are temporary, and the administration is actively pursuing reforms to close these gaps.
Speaking at the Civil Secretariat after leading a public pledge against corruption, Omar reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and integrity in governance. He said, “While Jammu and Kashmir remains a Union Territory, there are those who may see the current framework as a shield against repercussions. Let it be clear, this protection is temporary, and reforms are imminent.”
During his address, Omar urged all government officials to uphold their pledge of integrity, emphasizing that adherence to this commitment should start from the top. “Leadership begins with me. If I am dishonest, I cannot expect my cabinet ministers or their subordinates to be honest. It starts with me, and I intend to lead by example,” he stated. He reminded officials of the importance of their promises, saying, “Our word must count for something. The citizens of Jammu and Kashmir will hold us accountable.”
He added that accountability measures would be reinforced, with reforms targeting loopholes that allow evasion of responsibility. He assured that the planned governance changes, once implemented, would deter any attempts to misuse the system.
Omar spoke on his recent engagement with the Central leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. He said he had received assurances that the commitments made to Jammu and Kashmir would lead to substantial changes, particularly concerning the governance model. He stressed that the restoration of full statehood would bring a system where accountability and transparency would prevail.
Later, the Chief Minister chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the progress of the Finance Department. Key officials, including Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and Principal Secretary Finance, attended the meeting. Omar emphasised the need for fiscal reforms and sought increased funding from the Government of India (GoI).
The Principal Secretary Finance presented an overview of budgetary trends, fiscal challenges, and ongoing reforms. Omar lauded the increased focus on Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs), highlighting that funding from the GoI under various schemes had significantly increased this year.
“The receipt of CSS funds is now at Rs. 10,300 crore, compared to Rs. 6,386 crore in 2022-23 and Rs. 5,997 crore in 2021-22,” he noted. He stressed the importance of timely execution of projects under these schemes and called for close monitoring by Administrative Secretaries.
Omar also reviewed the Finance Department’s efforts to control non-priority expenditure and boost revenue, noting that there is a need to expedite capital expenditure across all departments. He urged the Finance Department to release the Union Territory’s share on priority and to improve GST collections, highlighting the scope for further enhancement.
He commended the efforts to maintain prudence in financial management, calling for a coordinated system to ensure efficient procurement from local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) via the Government e-Marketplace (GEM) portal. He instructed autonomous bodies and universities to develop robust monitoring systems to ensure judicious use of grants and to seek additional external funding from central agencies.
Later, Omar stressed the need for government departments to review their functioning to ensure that better amenities are provided to the public. He called on the Finance Department to pursue additional funding with the Centre, aiming to improve revenue generation and curb unnecessary expenditures.