Jammu and Kashmir Restores Historic Darbar Move: 150-Year-Old Capital Shifting Tradition Returns

Darbar Move, a ceremonial tradition dating back to 1872 established by Maharaja Gulab Singh, has been officially reinstated in Jammu and Kashmir as announced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah while celebrating his first year in office.

The 150-year-old practice involves the biannual relocation of the capital between Srinagar and Jammu, accommodating seasonal changes and ensuring administrative accessibility for citizens across both regions.

In 2021, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had discontinued this long-standing tradition, citing financial benefits of approximately Rs. 200 crore annually. This decision followed the Central government's 2019 actions, including the abrogation of Article 370, which enabled such administrative modifications.

"We had promised to restore the Darbar move. The Cabinet has approved the restoration of the Darbar Move. It has also received a nod from the Lt Governor. Today I have signed the order," Chief Minister Abdullah stated.

Shortly thereafter, the J&K General Administration Department issued an official order confirming the reinstatement of the Darbar Move. All government offices, including the Chief Minister's headquarters, will commence operations from Jammu, designated as the winter capital.

The discontinuation of this tradition had particularly affected Jammu's economy. Local business owners reported significant losses and consistently advocated for the revival of this established practice.

In 2022, the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries organized a protest campaign demanding the restoration of the Darbar Move, including a complete strike against the Lieutenant Governor's administration.

Commercial organizations and political entities alike emphasize that the Darbar Move has not only provided economic sustenance for Jammu residents but also served as a powerful symbol of regional unity and religious harmony within Jammu and Kashmir.

"Ending this tradition has badly hit the economy of Jammu. The restoration of the Darbar Move is a welcome step," commented a prominent trade representative.

Jammu, traditionally a BJP stronghold, saw mixed reactions to the Central government's August 5, 2019 decisions. While some segments initially supported these changes, many later concluded that the region had experienced negative repercussions from these policy shifts.