Legislative Assembly Passes Grants Worth ₹85,430 Crore
Jammu, March 21 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday announced the reintroduction of the Roshni Scheme in a new form, an increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) for MLAs, and an extension of the amnesty scheme for domestic electricity consumers. He also proposed the formation of a House Committee to review a salary hike for MLAs, similar to the system followed in Parliament.
The announcements were made during the Chief Minister’s 70-minute reply on the debate for grants of his departments in the Legislative Assembly. The House passed grants worth ₹85,430 crore for 13 departments after all MLAs withdrew their cut motions.
Reviving the Roshni Scheme
Referring to the Roshni Scheme, Omar said that it was originally introduced in 2001 by the then Farooq Abdullah-led government. The law granted ownership rights of state land to unauthorized occupants upon payment, with the goal of generating revenue for power projects. Over the years, successive governments modified the scheme, ultimately leading to its repeal in 2018, followed by a CBI probe.
Omar acknowledged that the scheme could not be defended in court due to amendments made by the PDP-Congress government, which removed land ceiling restrictions. He emphasized the need to bring back the scheme in a new, legally sound form.
Increase in CDF and MLA Salaries
Highlighting concerns raised by legislators, Omar announced an increase in the CDF from ₹3 crore to ₹4 crore per annum.
Regarding MLAs’ salaries, he noted that they had remained unchanged since 2015-16. He proposed forming a House Committee with leaders from various political parties to examine the Parliament model, where MPs’ salaries are revised every five years based on inflation.
He also assured that pensions for former MLAs and honorariums for their personal assistants (PAs) would be increased.
Amnesty Scheme Extended for Domestic Electricity Consumers
As the Minister in charge of the Power Development Department, Omar announced a one-year extension of the amnesty scheme for domestic electricity consumers. However, he made it clear that this would be the final extension. Under the scheme, interest on outstanding dues will be waived, and consumers will need to pay only the principal amount along with monthly rent.
“This is the seventh amnesty scheme. Amnesty is essentially a punishment for those who pay their bills on time,” he remarked.
Article 370 Debate and Verbal Duels in the Assembly
During his address, Omar responded to remarks made by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma, who had praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing J&K at par with the rest of India by abrogating Article 370.
Omar questioned whether the J&K Assembly was truly equal to other state assemblies in the country. He also criticized BJP’s rhetoric on historical matters, arguing that the party had itself altered the state’s original laws and map, including the removal of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC).
Concerns Over Economic Disparities and Urban Planning
Omar acknowledged economic disparities in J&K and highlighted the need for employment opportunities for local youth. Addressing urban planning issues, he pointed out the inefficiency in utilizing infrastructure such as footpaths, cycle tracks, and parking facilities.
“We need a collective shift in mindset to properly utilize our urban infrastructure,” he said. He also emphasized decongesting cities by developing planned residential townships while ensuring no displacement of locals.
Heritage Preservation and Governance Reforms
The CM announced restoration efforts for 33 heritage sites across J&K, with a budget of ₹65 crore, and plans for 73 more sites at a cost of ₹170 crore. He stressed that heritage defines identity and called for the expedited completion of projects like the Mubarak Mandi restoration.
Additionally, Omar proposed restoring the independent role of the Planning Department, which was merged with the Finance Department, to ensure better governance and policy execution.
Strict Action Against Unauthorized Occupation of Government Property
Highlighting the acute shortage of government accommodation, Omar advocated for vertical housing solutions, citing the Motibagh model in Delhi. However, he condemned unauthorized occupation, stating that action would be taken against those exceeding their entitlement or illegally occupying government property.
Assembly Passes Grants for Various Departments
The Legislative Assembly passed grants totaling ₹85,430 crore for 13 departments after three days of extensive discussion. The allocation included:
- ₹62,703.47 crore – Finance Department
- ₹4,061.30 crore – Housing & Urban Development
- ₹1,963.69 crore – Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction
- ₹810.73 crore – Revenue Department
- ₹762.84 crore – Law Department
- ₹612.80 crore – Tourism
- ₹466.83 crore – Hospitality, Protocol & Estates
Final Remarks and Political Jibes
Referring to BJP MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia’s remarks about his leadership style, Omar humorously compared his approach to cricket.
“I have not changed the game; I have only changed my tactics. Earlier, I was bowling fast because the Australian pitches support pace, but now I am bowling spin because BCCI pitches favor spin. The goal remains the same – to win,” he said, drawing applause from his party members.
He concluded his speech by urging legislators to avoid religiously sensitive comments and maintain decorum in political discourse.
