Srinagar, Aug 1: Amid growing speculation over an imminent reshuffle and expansion of the Jammu and Kashmir Council of Ministers, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has convened a crucial meeting of the Union Territory Cabinet on August 4, where several key policy decisions, including the convening of the Legislative Assembly’s September session, approval of the Master Plan, rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged in recent flash floods, and clearance of major development projects are expected to be taken.
According to official sources, the Cabinet meeting will be held at 4:00 PM at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The meeting assumes significance as it comes after a gap of nearly one and a half months and is widely believed to be the final Cabinet meeting before the much-anticipated reshuffle in the Council of Ministers.
The last Cabinet meeting was held on June 23, while no meeting took place during July.
September Assembly Session on Agenda
Sources said one of the major agenda items will be the proposal to convene the Legislative Assembly session in September. The Cabinet is expected to finalize its recommendation regarding the dates and duration of the session before forwarding it to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for approval.
Following the Lieutenant Governor’s approval, Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather will issue the official calendar for the session.
Officials noted that under constitutional provisions, the Assembly must meet at least once every six months. Since the Budget Session concluded on April 4, the next session must be convened before October 4, with the government reportedly planning to hold it towards the end of September.
Master Plan and Urban Expansion to Receive Cabinet Nod
The Cabinet is also expected to deliberate on the Master Plan Jammu-2032, which has been prepared by the Housing and Urban Development Department.
According to sources, the revised Master Plan significantly expands the municipal limits of Jammu city by incorporating several surrounding villages to facilitate planned urban growth, improved civic infrastructure, and the development of new residential colonies.
Once approved by the Cabinet, the Master Plan will pave the way for its implementation.
Major Development Projects Under Consideration
Several proposals relating to the Public Works Department, Jal Shakti Department, Rural Development Department, and other government departments are expected to receive Cabinet approval.
In addition, the Cabinet is likely to clear the promotion of several government officers and review other important administrative matters pending before the government.
Flood Damage Assessment and Reconstruction Plan
The Cabinet will also review the extensive damage caused by recent flash floods, landslides, and heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of lives and widespread destruction of public infrastructure.
Following the assessment, the government is expected to approve financial assistance for the repair and reconstruction of damaged roads, bridges, public buildings, and other essential infrastructure.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has already announced an ex-gratia relief of ₹6 lakh for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the recent flood-related incidents.
Reshuffle Buzz Intensifies
Political circles continue to witness intense speculation over an impending expansion and reshuffle of the Council of Ministers.
At present, the Council comprises Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and five Cabinet Ministers, while three ministerial berths remain vacant.
The Chief Minister had earlier hinted that changes in the Cabinet were under consideration, and sources indicated that the exercise is likely to be carried out during August.
Officials believe the August 4 Cabinet meeting could be the last meeting of the present Council of Ministers before the expected reshuffle, making it one of the most significant Cabinet meetings of the current administration.(KNC)
