Srinagar, Feb 06: Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, on Thursday expressed concerns over the exclusion of the elected government from key security discussions.
Speaking to the media person, Wani said that despite being an elected administration, the government is not consulted in critical security reviews, including the recent high-level meeting in Delhi.
He said that while the administration is expected to answer for security incidents, decision-making power remains with the Lieutenant Governor (LG) and central authorities. Wani reiterated the demand for the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that it would ensure accountability and centralized decision-making within the elected leadership.
“When there is a security review meeting, the elected government is not taken into confidence. The Chief Minister was not invited to the meeting in Delhi. Then how can we be expected to answer for incidents when we are not part of the decision-making process?” he said.
Referring to the recent security incidents in north and south Kashmir, the CM’s advisor said that over 500 people have been arrested, but questioned whether such actions were addressing the root causes of unrest. He accused authorities of “covering up” the situation rather than ensuring long-term stability.
On the question of whether restoring statehood would prevent future incidents, he said a fully empowered state government would have direct control over security matters, leading to a more coordinated response.
“When Jammu and Kashmir had statehood, there was accountability. The Chief Minister was responsible for security and governance. Right now, we do not have that control, which is why we keep insisting that full statehood must be restored,” he asserted.
In addition to security concerns, Nasir mentioned the pre-budget meeting held in the Union Territory, where the Chief Minister encouraged elected representatives from all parties to present their recommendations. He called this a step towards democratic decision-making but maintained that restoring statehood remains the top priority for ensuring stability and governance in Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
