Chief Minister Omar Abdullah affirmed that the distribution of assets and liabilities between the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Ladakh is proceeding through mutual understanding, guided by the recommendations of an advisory committee.
Addressing concerns raised by National Conference member Tanveer Sadiq, who alleged J&K received “fewer assets,” Abdullah acknowledged a disparity in asset allocation. He emphasized that the process adhered to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, and the recommendations of a government-formed advisory committee.
“While it’s true J&K received comparatively less in asset allocation, we prioritized resolving this through agreement and mutual understanding,” Abdullah stated, contrasting this approach with the ongoing disputes between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Regarding accommodation issues, he noted that a significant portion of the J&K guesthouse in Chanakyapuri, Delhi, was allocated to Ladakh. To address this, the government secured land in Dwarka for a new J&K Bhavan complex and is exploring additional accommodation options on Prithviraj Road.
Abdullah also addressed encroachments on J&K properties, confirming the eviction of unauthorized occupants from a property in Delhi, which is now under the resident commissioner’s control.
He further disclosed that financial liabilities of Rs 2,504.46 crore are slated for transfer to Ladakh, a matter under discussion with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ladakh administration.
The bifurcation of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh occurred on October 31, 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370.
