Power Without Authority: Omar Abdullah Struggles as a ‘Helpless’ Chief Minister
Srinagar, Feb 21, KNT: The growing sense of disillusionment among the people of Jammu and Kashmir is starkly evident as they question the effectiveness of their elected Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah. Despite being the head of the government, many believe that the real power remains concentrated in New Delhi, reducing the Chief Minister to a mere ceremonial figure with little control over crucial matters, particularly law and order.
The National Conference, which was voted to power with hopes of delivering much-needed relief to the people, has failed to live up to expectations, people claim. From economic hardships to administrative inefficiencies, people argue that nothing has changed on the ground despite their overwhelming support for the party.
A recent incident in Lal Chowk has further fueled the frustration. The Traders Association of Central Lal Chowk had put up signboards urging tourists to avoid liquor and drugs to prevent unruly behavior. However, within an hour of their installation, authorities removed the boards, a move that many saw as a direct reminder of Kashmir’s political powerlessness. Traders say the removal of these boards exposed the helplessness of the administration, which could not even allow a simple civic appeal to stay in place.
A shopkeeper in the city center voiced his anger, saying, “If Omar Abdullah truly believes he has no control over law and order, then what is the point of his position? Instead of skiing in Gulmarg or attending functions, he should take a stand for the people who elected him.”
Another local resident expressed disappointment, stating that the Chief Minister’s silence on crucial matters is unacceptable. “He is the elected leader. He may not have direct control over law and order, but he can at least raise his voice. Simply washing his hands off the issue won’t absolve him of responsibility. People voted for the National Conference hoping for change, but they have received nothing but empty rhetoric,” he said.
Critics argue that if Omar Abdullah cannot exercise real power, he should step down instead of continuing as a Chief Minister with limited authority. His recent public appearances, including enjoying noodles in Gulmarg, have drawn sharp criticism, with people accusing him of being more focused on leisure than addressing pressing governance issues.
The political helplessness of elected leaders in Jammu and Kashmir has been a longstanding issue, but with mounting public frustration, the demand for accountability is growing louder. As Kashmir grapples with economic woes, administrative failures, and governance concerns, the question remains: Is Omar Abdullah truly in charge, or just a symbolic head of a powerless government? [KNT]
