Jammu| Nov,3 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday walked on foot from his residence to civil secretariat on foot through the streets of winter capital on the opening day of the biannual ‘Darbar Move’ after a four-year hiatus.
The traditional darbar move practice involves the seasonal relocation of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu. Abdullah’s walk from his official residence to the Civil Secretariat was met with a warm reception from various trader associations, including the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who praised the revival of this long-standing tradition.
The ‘Darbar Move’ was originally established by the Dogra rulers nearly 150 years ago but was suspended in June 2021 by LG Sinha, who cited the transition to e-office as a means to save approximately Rs 200 crore annually. This decision faced significant backlash from the local business community, which viewed the halt as detrimental to trade and the historical connection between the two regions. Following public demand, Abdullah fulfilled his election promise to reinstate the practice, providing relief to local traders.
On the day of the event, Abdullah was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Jal Shakti Minister Javed Rana. The enthusiastic crowd celebrated his return to the Civil Secretariat with garlands, flower petals, and sweets, creating a festive atmosphere that required careful management by security personnel. The event underscored the importance of the ‘Darbar Move’ to the local economy and community ties.
