Srinagar, Jan 25: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday asserted that administrative and recruitment-related decisions must be guided strictly by merit, cautioning against giving a political, regional or religious colour to examinations and their outcomes.
Speaking to reporters in Gulmarg while responding to questions over the controversy surrounding the Judicial Services Mains results, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC Chief Minister Omar said that those who qualify on merit have every right to their selection. “Not everything should be viewed through the prism of region or religion. Certain decisions must rest purely on merit,” he said.
CM Omar made it clear that the government would not shy away from action if irregularities are proven. “If there is credible evidence of fraud, manipulation or use of unfair means, I am prepared to order a thorough investigation,” he said, adding that no wrongdoing would be shielded.
The Chief Minister was in Gulmarg to assess snowfall-related arrangements, review power restoration and oversee preparations for the inauguration of a new ski lift. He said he had received complaints regarding snow clearance and electricity supply, noting that minor gaps were being addressed by the administration.
Describing the recent snowfall as beneficial, Abdullah said January had remained largely dry so far, and the fresh snow would help tourism and reduce the risk of water shortages during summer. He also said more snowfall was expected on January 26 and 27.
On power supply, he said heavy snowfall and strong winds had temporarily reduced electricity generation from around 1,700 MW to nearly 100 MW, but supply had improved significantly by the previous night, crossing 1,500 MW. He expressed optimism that electricity restoration in the worst-hit areas would be completed soon.
Abdullah also said efforts were underway to make the ski lift operational within hours, adding that adequate snowfall this year should ensure smooth conduct of the Khelo India Winter Games, which had faced repeated postponements last year due to lack of snow.
Reiterating his party’s stand on the territorial integrity of the region, the Chief Minister said the Jammu and Kashmir government never supported the division of the erstwhile state. “We did not want Jammu and Kashmir to be separated. Ladakh should never have been separated, and we never wanted Jammu to be separated either,” he said, holding the BJP and its allies responsible for the division. —(KNC)
