Srinagar

Lok Sabha Member Engineer Rashid stated on Friday that the Jammu & Kashmir government should either restore the Darbar Move tradition or officially declare Srinagar as the permanent capital. The Darbar Move involved relocating government offices between Srinagar and Jammu every six months, a practice started by the Dogra Maharajas. However, this system was halted by the current Lt Governor’s administration to save costs associated with the frequent relocations.

During a protest outside the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, Rashid called for clarity regarding the capital’s status. He emphasized the confusion and difficulties faced by residents unsure whether to approach the Srinagar or Jammu offices. People are in chaos and suffering as Jammu and Kashmir lacks a clear capital, he remarked.

Rashid demanded that the administration either reinstate the Darbar Move or officially recognize Srinagar as the capital. He also criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for not addressing crucial issues like Article 370, 35A, and the release of political prisoners during meetings with higher authorities. Rashid expressed his willingness to support genuine initiatives that benefit the people but insisted that the government must keep its promises. Additionally, he raised concerns about recent violence in Shopian, Gagangir, and Tral, highlighting the destruction it has caused in the region.