An eight-point memorandum handed over to National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah after the cabinet expansion exposes growing tensions—and raises tough questions about whether the party is losing touch with its voters.

The recent Cabinet expansion in Jammu and Kashmir was expected to address questions of representation, strengthen the Omar Abdullah-led government and bring greater balance to its functioning. Yet, the discontent expressed by a section of National Conference legislators in its aftermath suggests that the exercise, by itself, has not resolved deeper concerns within the ruling party. Their subsequent meeting with party president Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with the submission of an eight-point memorandum, has brought an important question to the fore: does the party fully understand the expectations of the people who voted it to power? The issue should not be reduced to a contest over ministerial positions, portfolios or political influence. Cabinet formation is an important constitutional and administrative exercise, and every legislator cannot be accommodated in the Council of Ministers. However, the concerns raised by elected representatives deserve serious consideration, particularly when they relate to governance, implementation of election promises, coordination with ministers and the functioning of the party organisation. The leadership would be making a mistake if it viewed these developments merely as internal dissent to be managed or contained. In a democratic political organisation, disagreement is not necessarily a sign of disintegration. It can also be an indication that elected representatives are seeking a more effective channel to communicate the concerns of their constituencies. The challenge for the leadership is to distinguish between individual political ambitions and genuine issues concerning public representation and governance. Dr Farooq Abdullah’s acknowledgement that the legislators’ grievances were genuine and his assurance that some concerns would be addressed immediately while others would take time is a welcome beginning. His rejection of speculation about a party split is equally important. However, assurances must now translate into a structured and visible process of consultation. The credibility of the leadership will depend less on what was discussed at the meeting and more on what follows it. The National Conference must also recognise that the real test of its political strength lies beyond the Assembly and party meetings. The people of Jammu and Kashmir did not vote merely to determine who would occupy ministerial offices. They voted with expectations of responsive governance, improved public services, employment opportunities, development and the fulfilment of political commitments. The party’s 2024 election manifesto remains an important measure against which its performance will be judged. The demand for greater consultation between ministers and legislators therefore merits attention. MLAs are not simply members of the ruling party’s legislative strength; they are elected representatives who remain directly answerable to their constituencies. They are often the first to encounter public grievances relating to roads, electricity, drinking water, healthcare, education and administrative delays. A system that allows them to communicate these concerns regularly to the concerned ministers can improve coordination and make governance more responsive. At the same time, consultation cannot mean that every administrative decision must be subjected to political negotiation.

“The completion of the Cabinet expansion shifts the National Conference leadership’s core priority from internal party management to public governance. To maintain democratic legitimacy, the leadership must convert ministerial representation into measurable performance, bridge connections with legislators without undermining discipline, and fulfil electoral promises.”

Ministers must be allowed to discharge their responsibilities, officials must function within established rules, and decisions must be guided by public interest rather than competing political considerations. What is needed is an institutional mechanism for dialogue, accountability and follow-up, not an arrangement that creates parallel centres of authority. The party leadership must also look beyond the concerns of legislators. Its grassroots workers, local representatives and ordinary supporters need to feel that their voices matter. Political organisations risk losing public confidence when communication becomes concentrated among a few leaders and the distance between the leadership and the electorate begins to widen. The people’s power is ultimately expressed through the ballot, and no political party can afford to take that mandate for granted. The National Conference has a long political history and continues to occupy a significant place in Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape. That legacy, however, brings with it a greater responsibility to demonstrate internal democracy, collective leadership and accountability. The present moment offers an opportunity for introspection rather than confrontation. The concerns raised by legislators can become a starting point for improving the party’s functioning and strengthening the government’s relationship with the public. The Cabinet expansion is now a completed exercise. The more important task is to make the expanded government effective, accessible and accountable. The leadership must ensure that ministerial representation is matched by performance, that legislators are heard without compromising administrative discipline, and that electoral commitments are pursued through a clear and measurable roadmap. Ultimately, the strength of the National Conference will not be determined by the number of ministers in the Cabinet or the ability of its leadership to silence speculation about internal differences. It will be measured by its capacity to listen, deliver and remain connected with the people. The mandate belongs to the electorate; those entrusted with power must never lose sight of that fundamental democratic truth.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

The expansion of the Council of Ministers in Jammu and Kashmir, which was expected to bring administrative momentum and political balance to the Omar Abdullah-led government, has instead triggered an unexpected political storm within the ruling National Conference. What should have been an occasion of organisational consolidation has exposed simmering differences, competing aspirations and questions about the manner in which important political decisions are being taken. The induction of four new ministers on October 27 has clearly not settled well with a section of party legislators. Reports of closed-door meetings involving several MLAs, expressions of disappointment from senior leaders and speculation about further changes in the Cabinet have added to the uncertainty. Some legislators reportedly feel that their seniority, political experience and contribution to the party have not received adequate consideration. Others appear concerned about the process through which ministerial appointments were decided. The issue, therefore, goes beyond who secured a ministerial berth and who was left out. At its heart lies a more fundamental question: how much space do elected representatives have in shaping decisions within a political party that came to power on the promise of representing people’s aspirations? Reports of around 18 legislators meeting in Srinagar to discuss the Cabinet expansion have attracted considerable political attention. While some participants have played down the significance of the gathering, describing it as an informal interaction, other accounts suggest that dissatisfaction over the reshuffle and broader organisational issues figured prominently. The reported differences should not automatically be interpreted as a rebellion or a threat to the government’s survival. Nevertheless, they cannot be dismissed as ordinary political murmurs either. What is particularly concerning is the perception among some legislators that adequate consultation did not precede a decision of such political significance. Cabinet formation is undoubtedly the prerogative of the Chief Minister, exercised within the constitutional framework and subject to the prescribed limits. Yet, political leadership is not sustained by constitutional authority alone. It also depends on consultation, collective confidence and the ability to accommodate differing opinions within the organisation. A party’s legislators are not merely numbers in the Assembly. They represent constituencies, carry public expectations and remain directly accountable to voters. Their concerns deserve to be heard, even when their demands cannot necessarily be accommodated. Exclusion from the Cabinet may be a political disappointment, but exclusion from meaningful consultation can create a deeper sense of alienation. The National Conference leadership must recognise that internal disagreements are not unusual in democratic organisations. What matters is how such disagreements are managed. A healthy political party provides institutional channels for discussion, encourages constructive criticism and ensures that important decisions are not perceived as the outcome of a narrow circle of consultations. The present developments also expose the dangers of allowing rumours to dominate political discourse. Speculation about another Cabinet reshuffle, the possible removal of ministers, changes in the Chief Minister’s advisory structure and competing claims about regional representation has created an atmosphere of uncertainty. Much of this remains based on media reports and statements attributed to unnamed sources. Until the party leadership or the legislators concerned formally clarify their positions, such claims must be treated with caution. At the same time, the leadership cannot expect speculation to disappear merely by maintaining silence. A clear political communication strategy and direct engagement with dissatisfied legislators would help prevent misunderstandings from widening. The party president, Farooq Abdullah, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have an important role in facilitating such dialogue and restoring confidence. There is also a larger governance dimension to this controversy. Jammu and Kashmir is passing through an important political and administrative phase. Restoration of statehood, implementation of electoral commitments, employment generation, economic development and strengthening of democratic institutions remain among the major expectations of the people. Political energy consumed by internal disagreements risks diverting attention from these pressing responsibilities.

“The National Conference must address its internal political friction by establishing transparent consultation mechanisms and engaging in open dialogue with its legislators. Strong democratic leadership requires accommodating dissent and balancing competing aspirations rather than constantly reshuffling cabinets. Ultimately, the ruling party needs to resolve its internal divisions quickly so it can move past speculation and refocus on governing Jammu and Kashmir.”

The Government must also ensure that the Cabinet functions as a collective institution. Ministers should be assessed on their performance, administrative accessibility and delivery of public commitments rather than merely on political proximity or individual equations. Similarly, legislators should have a meaningful mechanism to communicate constituency-level concerns to the government without having to resort to public expressions of dissatisfaction. The present situation should therefore be viewed as an opportunity for introspection rather than confrontation. The ruling party needs to revisit its internal consultation mechanisms, establish greater transparency in organisational decision-making and ensure that regional and political considerations are addressed through a credible process. The Chief Minister, too, must recognise that leadership involves balancing competing aspirations, taking difficult decisions and, equally importantly, listening to those who disagree. A government may survive a Cabinet reshuffle, but a political organisation cannot afford to repeatedly weaken the confidence of its own elected representatives. Ultimately, the strength of a democratic party is not demonstrated by the absence of dissent but by its capacity to accommodate dissent without allowing it to become destructive. The National Conference has a political responsibility not only to manage its internal differences but also to remain focused on the mandate entrusted to it by the people. Jammu and Kashmir needs a government preoccupied with governance, not one constantly distracted by speculation about its own internal equations. The current political storm must serve as a reminder that consultation is not a concession to legislators; it is an essential ingredient of democratic leadership. The sooner the party addresses the concerns through open dialogue and institutional mechanisms, the sooner it can return its attention to the larger responsibilities of governance.

Shafqat Bukhari

The third edition of the Kashmir Marathon, scheduled for October 25 in Srinagar, offers an opportunity to look beyond the finish line and recognise the wider significance of sporting events in shaping public health, tourism, youth engagement and the region’s social identity. With Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urging people to participate and emphasising that taking part matters more than winning, the event carries a message that deserves to resonate far beyond the running track. A marathon is often measured in kilometres, timings and finishing positions. Its larger value, however, lies in the discipline it encourages, the barriers it challenges and the communities it brings together. In a society where sedentary lifestyles, stress and limited physical activity are growing concerns, promoting running can be a practical step towards healthier living. The Kashmir Marathon has the potential to make fitness more visible and accessible, encouraging people to view physical activity not as an occasional pursuit but as a regular part of everyday life. Chief  Minister Omar Abdullah, who participated in the first two editions, has urged people to register and experience the event, even if they do not expect to win. His emphasis on participation reflects an important sporting principle: the achievement of completing a race can be as meaningful as securing a podium finish. For first-time runners, students, working professionals and recreational athletes, the courage to begin is often the most important milestone. The introduction of a separate prize category for local runners is another significant feature. While attracting elite athletes from outside the region and abroad can raise the event’s profile, providing recognition to local participants can strengthen grassroots engagement. It creates an incentive for runners from Jammu and Kashmir to train, compete and measure their progress against clearly defined goals. The challenge is to ensure that this enthusiasm continues after the marathon concludes. Schools, colleges, universities, sports associations and local administrations can help build a sustained running culture through regular fitness activities, community races and accessible training opportunities. Such initiatives need not be expensive or elaborate. Safe walking routes, open public spaces and organised running groups can encourage participation among people of different ages and fitness levels. The three-day exposition at Polo View adds another dimension to the event. With government departments, sports firms and event partners showcasing equipment and accessories, the exhibition creates a meeting point for athletes, businesses, volunteers and organisers. Bib collection and on-the-spot registration counters also make the final preparations more accessible to participants. Such arrangements can help develop a broader sporting ecosystem in which events generate opportunities for sports retailers, fitness professionals, local service providers and hospitality businesses.

“Beyond registrations and prize money, the Kashmir Marathon’s real success lies in inspiring lasting community fitness, empowering local athletes, and building an enduring sporting culture beyond race day.”

If supported by effective planning, the marathon can contribute to economic activity while strengthening Srinagar’s image as a destination for outdoor recreation. For Kashmir’s tourism sector, the event offers an opportunity to diversify the Valley’s appeal beyond its traditional attractions of gardens, lakes, mountains and seasonal landscapes. Sporting events can bring visitors for a specific experience, encouraging them to explore local culture, cuisine and heritage alongside participation in the race. However, the long-term value of sports tourism depends on consistency. Reliable organisation, participant safety, convenient transport, suitable accommodation and effective promotion are essential to attracting repeat visitors. A well-organised marathon can become a recurring feature on the tourism calendar, provided its standards improve and its identity grows with each edition. The international participation highlighted by the Chief Minister suggests that the event is gaining wider recognition. This creates an opportunity to position Kashmir as a destination where sport, natural beauty and hospitality come together. Such visibility must be accompanied by attention to the experience of every participant, from elite runners to those completing their first half marathon. Equally important is the social message of inclusion. Running does not require expensive equipment or specialised facilities to begin. With appropriate guidance and gradual training, it can be adapted to different abilities and fitness levels. Encouraging women, young people and beginners to participate can help make fitness a shared public priority rather than an activity limited to a small group of enthusiasts. Public authorities and event organisers must also ensure that safety, medical assistance, hydration, route management and emergency response remain central to the arrangements. These practical measures are essential to protecting participants and building confidence in future editions. Ultimately, the success of the Kashmir Marathon should not be judged only by the number of registrations, the prize money or the presence of international runners. It should also be measured by whether more people take up running, whether local athletes receive meaningful opportunities and whether the event inspires lasting interest in physical activity. As Srinagar prepares for the October 25 race, Omar Abdullah’s appeal offers a simple but powerful message: participation itself is an achievement. The marathon provides a platform to celebrate endurance, discipline and collective effort while presenting Kashmir through a positive sporting experience. The finish line may mark the end of a race, but the real achievement would be to see its spirit continue on Srinagar’s streets, in educational institutions and across communities throughout the year. If the third edition helps more people embrace fitness and encourages a stronger sporting culture, the Kashmir Marathon will have accomplished something far more enduring than a successful race day.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

The Centre’s approval of ₹475.41 crore for upgrading 10 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across Jammu and Kashmir is a significant opportunity to strengthen technical education and expand employment prospects for young people. At a time when providing meaningful livelihoods to educated youth remains a major developmental priority, modernising vocational institutions and aligning their courses with industry requirements can help bridge the gap between education and employment. The investment, approved under the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs (PM-SETU) scheme, covers two clusters: Jammu and Srinagar. The allocation of ₹240 crore for the Jammu cluster and ₹235.41 crore for the Srinagar cluster reflects a substantial commitment to strengthening the region’s vocational training infrastructure. More importantly, the initiative offers an opportunity to reshape how technical skills are imparted, assessed and connected with actual employment opportunities. The proposed partnership between the government, industry and participating ITIs is central to the scheme’s potential. Government institutions possess an established network of training facilities and access to students, while industry partners can contribute practical knowledge, technological expertise and an understanding of changing workplace requirements. If effectively implemented, this collaboration can make vocational education more relevant to the needs of employers and emerging economic sectors. Under the Jammu cluster, Government ITI Jammu will serve as the hub, with institutions at R S Pura, Nowshera, Samba and Kathua functioning as associated institutes. In the Kashmir division, Government ITI Srinagar will anchor the cluster, supported by ITIs at Ganderbal, Kangan, Budgam and Charar-i-Sharief. This hub-and-spoke arrangement can help distribute improved training facilities and technical expertise across multiple districts rather than concentrating resources in a single institution. The real significance of the investment, however, will depend on what students experience inside these institutions. Modern buildings and equipment are important, but vocational education succeeds when students acquire practical competencies that employers value. Updated workshops, functional machinery, digital learning facilities, trained instructors and regular exposure to industrial workplaces must therefore form the core of the upgrading process. Equally important is the selection of courses. Jammu and Kashmir has opportunities in tourism, hospitality, construction, electrical maintenance, renewable energy, automobile servicing, information technology, food processing and other technical fields. Training programmes designed around these sectors can help students develop skills relevant to local businesses while preparing them for employment opportunities elsewhere.

“A ₹475.41 crore initiative aims to transform Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Jammu and Kashmir by aligning technical training in food processing, maintenance, and agricultural supply chains with modern industry demands. Achieving lasting success requires active employer involvement in curriculum design and apprenticeships, adherence to ISO and World Skills quality standards, and guaranteed placement pathways. To ensure these upgraded facilities effectively empower rural and economically weaker youth, the ministry must establish transparent implementation timelines, public progress tracking, and clear performance metrics focused on job placement and starting salaries.”

The region’s traditional economic strengths also deserve attention. Horticulture, cold-chain management, food processing, handicrafts and small-scale manufacturing can create demand for specialised technical skills. ITIs could play a greater role in training refrigeration technicians, food-processing operators, equipment maintenance workers and professionals capable of supporting modern agricultural supply chains. Industry participation must extend beyond financial commitments. Employers should contribute to curriculum development, provide apprenticeships, arrange workplace exposure and offer regular feedback on students’ performance. Where possible, institutions should establish clear placement pathways before introducing new courses. This would help ensure that training leads to realistic career opportunities rather than certificates without employment prospects. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has also emphasised improving training quality, pursuing ISO certification and incorporating at least one World Skills-aligned trade or competency area in the implementation plans. These priorities can encourage institutions to adopt measurable standards and prepare students for competitive professional environments. Yet, the success of the initiative will require clear timelines and transparent monitoring. The ministry’s announcement did not specify when the proposed upgrades would be completed or when the new courses would become available. Students and their families would benefit from a published implementation schedule, regular progress reports and clear information about course offerings, admissions and industry partnerships. Performance should ultimately be measured through student enrolment and completion, instructor training, apprenticeship opportunities, placement rates, starting salaries and employer feedback. Particular attention should be given to ensuring that students from rural and economically weaker backgrounds can access the improved facilities. The approval of ₹475.41 crore is an encouraging beginning. Its lasting value will emerge when the investment produces modern training institutions, capable instructors and skilled graduates who can compete confidently in the labour market. For Jammu and Kashmir, strengthening ITIs is not merely an exercise in upgrading infrastructure; it is an investment in the productive potential of its youth.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to relax certain No Objection Certificate (NOC) and compliance requirements for private schools raises serious questions about regulatory accountability. While eliminating unnecessary paperwork is justified, reducing mandatory safeguards to mere formalities could give unscrupulous school managements’ greater freedom without ensuring corresponding responsibility. With the FFRC headless for nine months, fee violations and concerns over unsafe school buildings, the government must prioritise parents and students The amendments notified under S.O. 251 on October 5, 2026, reportedly remove specified provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir School Education Rules, 2010, and replace certain compliance requirements with self-attested certificates. The private schools’ association has welcomed the decision as a major reform. But the government must explain whether the changes will genuinely improve education or simply make it easier for institutions to operate with reduced scrutiny. An NOC is not an administrative formality. It is intended to establish whether an institution fulfils prescribed requirements. Self-certification cannot replace independent inspections, particularly when children’s safety is involved. A management’s declaration cannot establish that a building is structurally sound, fire safety arrangements are adequate or school buses meet safety standards. Over the year it has  been observed that many private schools operate from rented buildings, with some premises reportedly declared unsafe for educational activities. These concerns demand urgent verification. The government must ensure that no institution operates from a building unfit to accommodate students. Simplifying procedures without effective inspections risks turning regulatory reform into an open licence for non-compliance. Questions have also been raised about schools operated by individuals involved in real estate and other commercial activities rather than educational trusts. Private ownership does not automatically imply wrongdoing, but education cannot be treated merely as a business opportunity. Transparency in ownership, infrastructure, finances and compliance must remain non-negotiable. The government’s approach becomes more questionable when viewed against the reported nine-month vacancy in the leadership of the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC). At a time when parents continue to raise concerns over school fees, the prolonged absence of a regular head raises a fundamental question: who is ensuring effective enforcement of fee regulations?

“Simplifying school administration in Jammu and Kashmir must eliminate red tape without diluting regulatory oversight, safety standards, or social accountability. Long-term approvals should not grant permanent exemption to private schools from inspections or fee regulation. The success of the October 5 amendments hinges on protecting students and improving educational quality, not just appeasing and pleasing school managements—the region requires simpler procedures, not a hugely compromised educational governance.”

The FFRC is an important safeguard against arbitrary financial demands. Its functioning cannot be treated as a secondary administrative concern while the government prioritises easing compliance for school managements. The authorities must fill the vacancy without further delay and ensure that pending complaints are addressed promptly. Allegations of private schools charging admission fees in violation of prescribed rules also require serious investigation. Similarly, the practice of beginning admission processes well before annual examinations can put unnecessary pressure on parents and students. The government must examine whether these practices violate existing regulations and take action wherever violations are established. Financial transparency must extend to teachers’ salaries and school transport charges. Where salary structures lack the required approval or effective regulatory oversight, teachers risk being subjected to arbitrary employment conditions. Parents, meanwhile, deserve clarity about the basis of bus fees and protection against unjustified charges. The government must specify the applicable rules and ensure their enforcement. The principle of ease of doing business cannot be applied to education without considering its social responsibilities. The government must ease unnecessary procedures, not the ability of institutions to evade scrutiny. Genuine schools should not suffer because of repetitive paperwork or departmental delays, but neither should regulatory relief come at the expense of children, parents and teachers. Demands for single-window clearances and time-bound disposal of applications merit consideration. However, longer NOC validity or permanent registration must not mean permanent exemption from inspections. Registration should remain subject to continued compliance with safety, infrastructure and academic requirements. The Government should publish clear guidelines explaining which requirements have been removed, which safeguards remain mandatory and how violations will be detected and punished. Periodic inspections, transparent fee regulation and accessible grievance mechanisms must accompany any relaxation. The real test of the October 5 amendments is not the approval they receive from school managements, but whether they improve educational standards while protecting students and parents. Jammu and Kashmir needs simpler procedures, not weaker regulation.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to draft a new media policy for regulating online news platforms comes at a time when the distinction between journalism and social-media commentary is becoming increasingly blurred. The issue deserves a serious debate because the digital explosion has undoubtedly widened access to information, but it has also created a space where speed, outrage and views often matter more than facts. Minister Sakina Itoo told the Assembly on September 30 that the proposed New Media Policy, 2026, will include provisions for the registration and regulation of online news platforms and mechanisms to address misleading or fabricated information. A House Committee headed by National Conference legislator Ali Mohammad Sagar has been involved in the process. There is a legitimate problem to address. Today, almost anyone with a smartphone and a Facebook page can present himself as a “journalist”. A video, a dramatic caption and a few hundred shares can create the impression of a news report without the basic elements of journalism: verification, attribution, context and accountability. The obsession with views has changed the nature of online reporting. For many Facebook pages, the first question is not “Is this true?” but “Will this get views?” A rumour can therefore travel faster than a verified report. A provocative headline can attract more attention than a carefully reported story. Personal attacks can generate more engagement than public-interest journalism.This is where the growing culture of “Facebook journalism” deserves criticism. There is nothing inherently wrong with journalists using Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or other platforms. In fact, social media has become an important tool for distributing genuine journalism and reaching audiences that traditional newspapers may not reach. The problem begins when the platform becomes the journalism itself—when opinion is presented as fact, allegations are presented as established truth and personal hostility is disguised as reporting. But regulation must not become an excuse for controlling uncomfortable journalism. The Government must therefore draw a clear line between accountability and censorship. False information, impersonation, deliberate fabrication, defamation and other unlawful conduct can be dealt with under existing laws.

“The deterioration of online discourse is a collective responsibility shared by politicians, media organizations, officials, and audiences, rather than journalists alone. True professional journalism demands accuracy, verification, independence, and accountability over virality, follower counts, and clickbait. While Jammu & Kashmir needs strong journalism, the success of any proposed media policy relies on holding all digital actors—including political and government institutions—to the same ethical standards to build public trust.”

The proposed policy should focus on transparent standards rather than giving authorities excessive discretion to decide what constitutes acceptable journalism. The responsibility also lies with political parties and elected representatives. As the Minister herself pointed out in the Assembly, political actors and legislators also contribute to the digital ecosystem by promoting particular pages, circulating material and using social media for political attacks. It would therefore be unfair to blame journalists alone for the deterioration of online discourse. Politicians, officials, media organisations and audiences all have a role in determining what succeeds in the digital marketplace. The media fraternity too must look inward. Professional journalism cannot be reduced to possessing a Facebook page, uploading videos or gathering thousands of followers. Journalism requires verification, independence, attribution, correction and a willingness to ask difficult questions—even when the answers are inconvenient. The most important test of digital journalism should not be how many people viewed a post. It should be whether the information was accurate, relevant and responsibly reported. J&K needs more journalism, not less. But it needs journalism that values facts over virality, public interest over personal attacks and credibility over clicks. The proposed media policy can become an opportunity to establish these standards. Its success, however, will depend on ensuring that accountability applies equally to everyone—whether a newspaper, television channel, YouTube outlet, Facebook page, political party or government institution. In the digital age, views are easy to manufacture. Trust is much harder to build. Journalism must choose the latter.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000 comes at a time when urban local governance needs more than legal corrections. The Jammu and Kashmir Municipal (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Legislative Assembly, proposes changes relating to the composition of smaller municipal bodies and provisions concerning ward determination. The Bill has already been published in an extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette.  At first sight, changing the minimum number of elected members in municipalities with a population of up to 5,000 from five to seven may appear to be a technical amendment. In reality, it raises a larger question: what kind of urban local government does Jammu and Kashmir want to build? The existing law contains an apparent inconsistency. One provision refers to a minimum of seven elected members, while the relevant table provides for five members for municipalities with a population of 5,000. The proposed amendment seeks to remove this contradiction by making seven the applicable minimum.  There is a reasonable argument for expanding elected representation. Smaller municipal bodies deal directly with everyday concerns—drainage, sanitation, roads, street lighting, waste management, water supply and local planning. Giving more elected representatives a place in these institutions can widen representation and allow more localities and interests to find a voice. But numbers alone cannot strengthen democracy. The more important test will be whether the amendment produces municipal institutions that are genuinely representative, accountable and capable of taking decisions. Seven elected members are meaningful only when they have clearly defined responsibilities, adequate resources and an effective institutional framework through which citizens can hold them accountable. This is also why the proposed changes concerning ward determination deserve careful legislative scrutiny. The reported amendment seeks to remove a reference to the State Election Commission from Section 10(2), while other provisions of the municipal law already deal with electoral functions and the conduct of municipal elections. The legislation should therefore leave no ambiguity about who determines wards, who supervises elections and where administrative responsibility ends and electoral authority begins. Any lack of clarity in these areas can create unnecessary disputes precisely when local bodies are preparing to function through elected representatives. Jammu and Kashmir also needs to move beyond viewing municipalities simply as administrative extensions of the government.

“New Municipal law tabled by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has not been debated in assembly yet. While the irrefutable fact is that nominated experts can add value, the Government must ensure that true power remains with elected representatives who are accountable before the people. As J&K aligns with its Union Territory framework, true reform won’t be measured by how many seats are added, but by public trust, inclusive consultations, and tangible results: cleaner streets, smoother roads, and accountable civic services.”

Urban local bodies should have space for participation from elected councillors, residents, technical experts, traders, civil society and other relevant stakeholders. Such participation need not dilute the authority of elected representatives. Rather, it can make municipal decision-making more informed and responsive. The emphasis, therefore, should be on elected representation rather than excessive nomination. Where nominated representation is necessary to bring expertise or otherwise unrepresented interests into municipal institutions, its role should be clearly defined and should not overshadow the mandate of elected councillors. The core principle must remain that local government derives its legitimacy from the people. The amendment also comes against the larger backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory and the continuing process of aligning older laws and institutions with the present constitutional and administrative framework. That makes clarity in municipal legislation particularly important. The Government has an opportunity to use this amendment not merely to correct a drafting inconsistency but to strengthen the architecture of urban democracy. The Assembly should examine the Bill clause by clause and seek the views of municipal representatives, political parties, urban planners, legal experts, civil society groups and citizens. Such consultation can help ensure that the final legislation addresses practical problems rather than only correcting language in an old law. The ultimate measure of municipal reform will not be whether a municipality has five councillors or seven. It will be whether residents see better roads, cleaner neighbourhoods, improved waste management, accountable planning and quicker civic services. Jammu and Kashmir’s towns and cities are changing rapidly. Its municipal laws must change with them. A stronger local government requires more than additional seats; it requires elected authority, institutional clarity, public participation and accountability. The present amendment can be a step in that direction if the Legislature treats it as an opportunity for meaningful municipal reform rather than merely a numerical correction.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

Twenty-five years in public office is more than a political milestone. It is a measure of endurance, responsibility and the ability to remain connected with the aspirations of a changing society. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the journey that began with his taking oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001 has evolved into one of the longest continuous tenures at the helm of government in India. In June 2026, he also became the country’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister. The significance of this journey lies not merely in its length but in the scale of transformation that has accompanied it. From Gujarat to the national stage, governance under Modi has increasingly been defined by an emphasis on implementation, technology, infrastructure, welfare delivery and the ambition to position India as a confident global power. When Modi assumed office in Gujarat in 2001, the state was recovering from a devastating earthquake and facing challenges related to drought, infrastructure and economic development. Over the following years, Gujarat became associated with an emphasis on industrial growth, infrastructure and governance. Modi later carried this development-oriented approach to the national level after becoming Prime Minister in 2014. Over the past twelve years, the national policy landscape has witnessed initiatives spanning financial inclusion, sanitation, housing, electricity, digital payments, healthcare, infrastructure, manufacturing and entrepreneurship. The expansion of digital public infrastructure has particularly changed the relationship between citizens and government, making many services and transactions faster and more accessible. The welfare dimension has remained an important part of this journey. Government programmes have sought to provide housing, drinking water, electricity, food security, healthcare and direct financial support to millions of households. According to the Union Cabinet’s June 2026 resolution, more than 25 crore people have moved out of poverty during this period, while major welfare initiatives have expanded access to basic services.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political journey from 2001 to his national leadership today highlights a key chapter in India’s modern governance. Aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, his leadership focuses on empowering youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs, and technology to drive broad-based growth. As citizen expectations shift from basic access to world-class infrastructure and innovation, PM Modi faces the challenge of sustaining this development momentum to transform national ambitions into everyday prosperity, self-reliance, and global confidence by the centenary of Independence.”

At the same time, the emphasis on economic self-reliance has become increasingly prominent. Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, semiconductor manufacturing, defence production and support for startups reflect an effort to strengthen domestic capabilities. India’s growing technology ecosystem, expanding infrastructure and increasing focus on artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing are part of a larger vision of building an economy capable of competing globally. The transformation has also been visible in India’s international engagement. The G20 presidency, the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE and India’s expanding engagement with the Global South have contributed to a stronger global profile. The government has increasingly projected India not simply as a large market but as a country seeking a greater role in shaping global conversations. Perhaps the most important feature of the 25-year journey is the emphasis on long-term national goals. The vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 seeks to connect present-day reforms with the centenary of Independence. The focus on youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and technology reflects an attempt to make development an increasingly broad-based national project. Twenty-five years also represent a changing India. The aspirations of citizens today are different from those of 2001. Expectations have moved from basic connectivity and access towards quality infrastructure, innovation, global opportunities and higher standards of living. Modi’s political journey has unfolded alongside this transformation. As he enters another phase of public service, the larger challenge is to sustain the momentum of development while translating national ambitions into tangible improvements in the everyday lives of citizens. The journey from Gujarat in 2001 to the national leadership of today remains a significant chapter in contemporary India’s governance story. The next milestone, therefore, is not simply about looking back at twenty-five years. It is about carrying forward the aspiration of building an India that is more prosperous, capable, self-reliant and confident in the world.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

BRICS enters its third decade at a moment when the international order is undergoing profound change. In his opening remarks at the 18th BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi placed India’s chairship within a larger vision of inclusive, people-centric and humanity-first global cooperation. His message was not merely about strengthening an international grouping; it was about making global governance more representative, responsive and capable of addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. India’s BRICS chairship, guided by the priorities of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability, has sought to take the grouping beyond summit diplomacy. More than 350 meetings were organised across nearly 30 Indian cities, bringing BRICS engagement closer to people, institutions and communities. This approach underlines an important principle: international cooperation becomes meaningful when its outcomes eventually improve the lives of ordinary citizens. The 20th anniversary of BRICS provides an appropriate moment for such reflection. Twenty years after its formation, the grouping has acquired a distinct identity on the global stage. Its members have demonstrated that differences in national perspectives need not prevent cooperation. Consensus remains central to BRICS, but consensus must now be translated into concrete outcomes. That is perhaps the most important challenge before BRICS as it enters its next twenty years. The grouping has demonstrated that countries with different political systems, economic structures and strategic priorities can work together. Its next task is to demonstrate that this collective voice can produce measurable change in the international system. Prime Minister Modi’s proposal for a BRICS Continuity and Implementation Mechanism is therefore significant. Annual changes in chairship should not result in the loss of institutional momentum. A systematic mechanism through the Troika, supported by a secure digital repository recording decisions, responsible institutions, timelines and implementation status, could make BRICS more accountable and effective. Such an institutional approach can help transform summit declarations into continuing programmes. It can also ensure that initiatives survive changes in leadership and remain part of a long-term BRICS agenda. But strengthening BRICS internally is only one part of the larger challenge. The second is reforming global governance itself. PM Modi’s description of the existing international order as a “pyramid of privilege” captures a longstanding concern of the Global South. Many developing countries are deeply affected by decisions taken by international institutions, yet their influence over those decisions does not always correspond with their economic weight, population or contribution to global growth. The alternative proposed by India is a “platform of partnership”—a system in which every country has a meaningful voice and a stake in decisions affecting humanity. This vision is particularly relevant at a time when global challenges have become increasingly interconnected. Climate change, economic instability, technological disruption, conflicts, pandemics and food and energy insecurity do not respect national borders. Yet the institutions expected to address these challenges often operate through structures created under very different global circumstances. Reform, therefore, cannot remain an abstract diplomatic aspiration. It must improve representation, responsiveness and rule-making. Representation is the first pillar. Modi’s call for time-bound progress on reform of the United Nations Security Council reflects the demand for international institutions to better represent contemporary realities. Similarly, global financial institutions need to ensure that voting power, leadership positions and policy priorities reflect the changing distribution of economic power. The second pillar is responsiveness. International institutions ultimately earn legitimacy by solving problems effectively. The Prime Minister’s proposal for a Seafarers Emergency Support Network illustrates this practical approach. Seafarers sustain a significant part of global trade but can face serious difficulties when emergencies occur far from home. A coordinated network connecting maritime authorities and diplomatic missions could facilitate distress alerts, medical assistance, family communication and evacuation. Such initiatives demonstrate how global governance can become more people-centred. The strength of international institutions is ultimately measured not by the number of declarations they produce, but by their ability to respond when individuals and communities need help. The third pillar—rule-making—may prove the most consequential in the years ahead. Artificial intelligence, cyberspace, biotechnology, outer space and other critical technologies are rapidly transforming economies and societies. The rules governing these domains are still evolving. The Global South cannot afford to remain merely a consumer of rules formulated elsewhere.

“Amplifying the Global South strengthens global institutions by making them more legitimate and resilient. At 20, BRICS must mature from a collective voice into an actionable force capable of addressing global governance challenges. Under India’s chairship, the grouping advocates for a multilateral vision centered on shared global leadership, replacing privilege and empty declarations with genuine partnership and delivery. Moving forward, BRICS’ ultimate success depends on translating cooperation among emerging powers into a fairer, more responsive international order.”

Developing countries need the expertise and institutional capacity to participate actively in shaping the norms that will govern the technologies and economies of the future. PM Modi’s proposal to use BRICS to equip young diplomats and policymakers with negotiation skills, legal expertise and practical training offers one avenue towards that goal. It is an investment not simply in present diplomacy but in the next generation of global decision-makers. The emphasis on South-South Cooperation is equally important. Developing countries possess diverse experiences of development, governance, technology and social innovation. Sharing these experiences can create alternatives and solutions better suited to the realities of the Global South. India’s willingness to take the lead in this area reflects the broader transformation of its own international role. A country that once primarily sought space within existing institutions is increasingly arguing for institutional reform and a greater role in shaping the rules themselves. This is not a call for one group of countries to replace another. The more constructive vision is one of partnership. A stronger voice for the Global South does not have to mean a weaker global system. On the contrary, broader representation can make international institutions more legitimate, resilient and effective. The real test of BRICS at 20 will therefore be whether its unity can translate into impact. Its coming of age should mean greater institutional maturity, stronger implementation and a willingness to engage with difficult questions surrounding global governance. India’s chairship has placed an ambitious proposition before the grouping: if humanity shares the future, humanity must also share the right to shape it. That is a positive and forward-looking vision of multilateralism. It replaces exclusion with participation, privilege with partnership and declarations with delivery. As BRICS begins its next twenty years, its greatest opportunity lies in proving that cooperation among emerging powers can contribute to a fairer and more responsive international order. The journey should now move decisively from voice to impact, and from privilege to partnership.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

The meeting between Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi comes at a significant juncture for the Union Territory, where the demand for restoration of statehood continues to remain one of the most important political issues. The discussions, covering statehood, administrative rules, reservation rationalisation, development and public welfare, underline the range of institutional questions that need sustained attention as Jammu and Kashmir moves through a period of political and administrative transition. Restoration of statehood has repeatedly figured prominently in political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir. The issue is not merely about administrative nomenclature; it is closely linked to the functioning of elected institutions, the relationship between the elected government and the administration, and the aspirations of people who want greater institutional representation in the affairs of the region. At the same time, the question requires a constructive and mature political approach. The Union Government has on several occasions indicated its commitment to restoring statehood at an appropriate stage. The priority, therefore, should be to maintain meaningful dialogue between Srinagar and New Delhi rather than allowing the issue to become another source of political confrontation. The meeting between the Chief Minister and the Home Minister provides an opportunity to keep that dialogue active. Political differences are natural in a democracy, but issues having a direct bearing on governance and the future institutional structure of Jammu and Kashmir require consistency, patience and engagement. The finalisation of the Transaction of Business Rules is another important matter. Clear rules are essential for ensuring that responsibilities among different institutions are properly defined and that government functioning remains efficient and predictable. For citizens, institutional clarity ultimately matters because it affects the delivery of services, decision-making and accountability. Similarly, the issue of rationalisation of reservations requires careful consideration. Reservation policies have important social and constitutional objectives, but they must also be periodically examined to ensure that they remain equitable, transparent and responsive to changing circumstances. Any exercise in this regard should be guided by data, consultation and a commitment to fairness. The Chief Minister’s briefing on the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir is another significant aspect of the meeting.

“Restoring statehood is a key aspiration for Jammu and Kashmir, but real progress depends on moving beyond political rhetoric to deliver on basic needs like jobs, infrastructure, and tourism. The true path forward relies on a strong, collaborative partnership between the Centre and the local elected government—one that builds institutional trust, improves governance, and delivers a prosperous, democratic future through steady dialogue and equitable growth.”

The festival, scheduled to begin in Srinagar on September 7, has the potential to place Jammu and Kashmir on a new cultural and creative map. Kashmir has a long association with cinema and has historically served as a backdrop for films. An international festival can help transform that relationship by making the region not merely a location for filming but also a destination for filmmakers, audiences, cultural practitioners and creative industries. Such initiatives can contribute to tourism, employment and the growth of the local creative economy. They can also provide a platform for local filmmakers and artists to connect with national and international counterparts. The Chief Minister’s acknowledgment of the Union Government’s timely assistance following flood-related damage is equally important. Natural disasters do not recognise political boundaries, and effective relief and rehabilitation require close coordination between the Union and the UT administrations. The recent weather-related challenges once again underline the need for stronger disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure and faster response mechanisms. The larger message from the meeting should therefore be one of cooperation. Jammu and Kashmir faces a wide range of challenges—from institutional questions and employment to infrastructure, tourism, disaster management and economic development. These cannot be addressed through political rhetoric alone. Restoration of statehood remains an important aspiration, but the journey towards it should proceed alongside strengthening governance, improving public services and creating greater economic opportunities. A sustained engagement between the Centre and the elected government can help create the institutional confidence necessary for Jammu and Kashmir’s next political chapter. The objective should ultimately be simple: stronger democratic institutions, efficient governance, equitable development and a future in which the aspirations of the people are addressed through dialogue and democratic processes.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com