Omar Abdullah Revives Historic 'Darbar Move' Tradition in Jammu and Kashmir After Four-Year Gap

Omar Abdullah fulfilled his campaign pledge by reinstating the traditional 'Darbar Move' practice in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah demonstrated his commitment to tradition on Monday by walking from his official residence to the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, officially marking the revival of the biannual 'Darbar Move' after a four-year hiatus.

During his journey through Residency Road and Raghunath Bazar, Abdullah received an enthusiastic welcome from various trader associations, including the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Business leaders expressed their appreciation for his decision to restore this historic practice that had been suspended in 2021.

The 'Darbar Move' is a 150-year-old tradition established by Dogra rulers that involves relocating the government's administrative offices between Srinagar and Jammu in accordance with seasonal changes. The Civil Secretariat and related government offices recently closed in Srinagar on October 30-31 and have now commenced operations from the winter capital for the next six months.

This traditional practice was halted in June 2021 by Lieutenant Governor Sinha, who cited the administration's transition to digital operations and projected annual savings of approximately Rs 200 crore. However, the decision faced significant opposition, particularly from Jammu's business community, who considered it detrimental to local commerce and the historical connection between the two regions.

On October 16, Abdullah delivered on his electoral promise by announcing the restoration of the 'Darbar Move,' bringing significant relief to Jammu's commercial sector.

The Chief Minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Minister Javed Rana, departed his official residence around 9 am and walked several kilometers to reach the Civil Secretariat.

Local traders gathered in substantial numbers to celebrate the occasion, garlanding Abdullah, showering him with flower petals, and distributing sweets amid festive drumbeats throughout his journey.

The chief minister's security detail faced challenges managing the enthusiastic crowds that gathered to witness his walk to the secretariat.

Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Arun Gupta was among the first to extend greetings to the Chief Minister during this symbolic journey.