Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced the formation of a committee, chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, to develop a framework for the regularization of daily-rated wagers in Jammu and Kashmir. The committee, which will include senior officials from various departments, is tasked with finalizing the roadmap and assessing the legal and financial aspects of regularizing daily wagers within six months. The final policy will be discussed in the next budget.
During the discussion on Budget 2025, the Chief Minister addressed the humanitarian nature of the issue, emphasizing that the plight of daily wagers goes beyond financial concerns. He expressed his dismay at the use of force against protesting daily wagers in Srinagar and Jammu, calling for an investigation into the circumstances that led to the situation. Recalling his previous tenure when his government had initiated a framework for regularization, he noted that the 2014 elections and floods disrupted the process.
Omar Abdullah also criticized the opposition for its inaction on the issue, pointing out that, despite having both state and central authority, they failed to address the regularization of daily wagers. He criticized their focus on the 7th Pay Commission over the welfare of daily wagers and remarked that even after the issuance of SRO-520, only 577 daily wagers were regularized.
Budget 2025: A Realistic Approach
The Chief Minister also responded to criticism of his budget speech, which some described as pessimistic. He clarified that his speech was realistic, not pessimistic, and reflected the harsh financial realities facing Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the limited resources available and explained that while the government cannot provide free electricity or assume full control of power projects, it has prioritized welfare measures for the poor.
Omar Abdullah acknowledged that the budget would not yield immediate results, but he assured that it laid the foundation for long-term growth and development. He stressed that the focus is on building a strong, self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir over the next five years.
Opposition and Criticism
In response to the opposition’s criticism, particularly from BJP members, the Chief Minister pointed out that their speeches were centered on issues unrelated to the budget, such as Article 370 and Maharaja Ji. He noted that the opposition’s remarks lacked substance and failed to address the pressing issues in the budget.
A “Love Letter” to the People of J&K
Reiterating the significance of his budget speech, Omar Abdullah referred to it as a “love letter” to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, expressing his commitment to addressing their challenges and aspirations. He emphasized that the budget was designed with the welfare of the people in mind and aimed at providing long-term solutions for their well-being.
Central Government Support and Financial Reality
The Chief Minister also responded to criticism about his acknowledgment of financial support from the central government, stating that there is no shame in admitting reliance on central funds. However, he emphasized that the ultimate goal is to achieve financial self-reliance for Jammu and Kashmir. He also clarified misconceptions regarding Centrally Sponsored Schemes, highlighting the UT’s significant contribution to various welfare programs.
Restoring Dignity and Empowerment
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring dignity and self-reliance for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed confidence that, through small but meaningful steps, the region would achieve financial self-sufficiency and prosperity over the next five years.
Earlier, several MLAs, including Qayser Jamsheed Lone, Showkat Hussain Ganie, Javed Iqbal Choudhary, and others, discussed the budget provisions and provided their views and suggestions.
