Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s announcement of the revival of the Durbar Move after a four-year hiatus has stirred both nostalgia and controversy across Jammu and Kashmir. The century-old bi-annual practice — where the government alternates its seat between Srinagar and Jammu — was halted in 2021 by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, which cited cost, efficiency, and technological advancement as reasons to end it.

The Chief Minister has said that the cabinet has approved the decision and that the file has received the LG’s nod. The move fulfils a key National Conference election promise to “restore the full Durbar Move” and “enhance the unity of state.” While the decision appeals to sentiment and symbolism, it also raises questions about priorities in an age of digital governance a

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