Over 83,000 Domicile Certificates Issued to Non-Locals in J&K in Two Years
Jammu, Apr 9, KNT: The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued a total of 83,742 domicile certificates to non-local residents over the past two years, marking a significant shift in the region’s demographic and administrative framework post the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A.
The information was disclosed by the Minister for Revenue, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah himself in response to a question raised by Peoples Democratic Party legislator Waheed Ur Rehman Para during the Assembly session.
The data reveals that these domicile certificates were granted after the region’s special status was revoked on August 5, 2019, by the BJP-led government at the Centre. The move nullified the exclusive rights once reserved under Article 35A, which had barred outsiders from settling, owning land, or securing government jobs in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
The original state subject laws, introduced by Dogra ruler Maharaja Hari Singh in 1927, aimed to protect the economic and social rights of the local population. With the introduction of new domicile laws by the Lieutenant Governor-led administration, that decades-old legal framework has undergone a fundamental change.
As per the revised rules, Tehsildars are mandated to issue domicile certificates within 15 days of receiving a valid online application. In cases of delay or denial without sufficient cause, a fine of Rs 50,000 can be imposed on the concerned revenue officer.
The government’s new domicile policy has paved the way for long-residing non-state individuals such as West Pakistani refugees, Valmikis brought in as sanitation workers decades ago, and women from J&K who marry outside state subjects to finally gain formal residency rights.
However, the large number of certificates issued has drawn criticism from opposition parties, particularly the PDP, which views the development as an attempt to alter the demographic character of the region.
Speaking outside the House, PDP legislator Waheed Ur Rehman Para said the figures reflect “a deeper political design that needs public scrutiny and debate.” He added, “The rapid dilution of safeguards and the ease with which outsiders are acquiring domicile status is deeply concerning for the identity and future of the local population.” [KNT]
