The Ministry of Home Affairs has amended the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, to enhance the authority of the Lieutenant Governor, including the power to appoint the Advocate General for the Union Territory.
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NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced significant amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, aimed at expanding the authority of the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) in the region. These changes, as detailed in the amended Rules under Section 55 of the Act, have introduced pivotal new Sections that significantly bolster the powers held by the L-G.
Under the revised framework, the L-G now holds the authority to appoint the Advocate General for the Union Territory. This move is seen as a step to streamline legal processes and ensure that the highest standards of legal advice are available to the administration directly from the appointed official.
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A spokesperson mentioned-
“This amendment enables a more direct and efficient governance model, facilitating quicker legal responses to administrative needs.”
Furthermore, the L-G has been vested with the power to sanction prosecutions and grant permissions to file appeals. This is a critical update, as it allows for a more cohesive and responsive legal system within the Union Territory. Explaining the significance of this change, an official stated-
“The L-G’s authority to grant sanctions for prosecution and approval for filing appeals strengthens the administration’s capability to handle legal matters promptly and effectively.”
These amendments are part of a broader strategy to ensure a robust administrative framework in Jammu and Kashmir, which aligns with the central government’s objectives of maintaining law and order and facilitating development in the region. By augmenting the powers of the L-G, the central government aims to achieve a more centralized and effective governance structure.
Critics of the amendment argue that increasing the powers of the L-G could lead to centralization of authority and diminish the role of local governance structures. However, supporters claim that these changes are necessary for the integration and uniform administration of the Union Territory.
