J&K Deputy CM Slams BJP for Neglecting Darbar Move Tradition, Jammu’s Economy Suffered Due to Darbar Move Suspension
Srinagar, Mar 15, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday lashed out at the BJP, questioning its dedication to the region and accusing the party of neglecting the long-standing Darbar Move tradition during its tenure.
Addressing reporters, Choudhary highlighted that while the National Conference has always ensured equal treatment for Jammu and Kashmir, the BJP failed to revive the biannual shifting of government offices over the past decade. “If they truly cared for Jammu, why didn’t they implement the Darbar Move in the last ten years? The National Conference has always upheld justice for Jammu,” he remarked.
The Darbar Move, a century-old practice dating back to the era of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, involves the shifting of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu to maintain regional balance. From May to October, the administration operates from Srinagar, while during the winter months, it functions from Jammu.
Choudhary stressed that the suspension of the Darbar Move has adversely affected businesses in Jammu. “Had the Darbar Move continued, Jammu’s economy would have flourished. It was under National Conference governments that Jammu received its due share. Now, BJP leaders claim discrimination against Jammu, but these statements are merely aimed at grabbing attention,” he added.
He reaffirmed that the National Conference remains committed to the region’s development and has always ensured fair treatment.
The debate over the Darbar Move resurfaced in December 2024 when Chief Minister Omar Abdullah pledged to reinstate the practice. “Surprisingly, this issue was overlooked during elections and has only now gained traction. However, we have consistently assured in meetings that the Darbar Move will return,” CM Omar stated.
On December 9, he further emphasized the tradition’s significance, calling it the “hallmark of Jammu City.” He noted that the practice facilitated cultural and economic exchanges, fostering interactions between people from both regions at various locations like Wave Mall, Residency Road, and Gole Market. “I assure you that we will restore the Darbar Move,” he promised, adding that time constraints had prevented its implementation thus far.
The Darbar Move was discontinued in April 2021 for the first time in history due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a major shift in governance that has since remained a contentious issue.
