LG Sinha Backs Introduction of Para’s Bill on New Divisions in J&K Assembly

JAMMU, Mar 26: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has approved the introduction of a private member’s Bill in the Assembly proposing a comprehensive administrative reorganisation of the Union Territory.

The Bill, moved by PDP legislator Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, aims to establish a statutory framework for restructuring divisions, districts, sub-divisions and tehsils across Jammu and Kashmir. The proposal has been formally cleared for introduction under provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.

Titled the Jammu and Kashmir Territorial Administrative Reorganization Bill, 2026, the legislation suggests the creation of new administrative divisions, including a Chenab Division headquartered in Doda and a Pir Panjal Division with its headquarters in Rajouri, alongside the existing divisions.

The Bill also proposes carving out several new districts to improve administrative efficiency. In the Kashmir region, suggested districts include areas such as Tral-Awantipora, Ashmuqam-Pahalgam, Beerwah, Sopore, Handwara, Gurez and Tangdhar-Karnah. In the Jammu region, proposed districts include Nowshera, Bhaderwah, Banihal, Thathri, Akhnoor, Billawar, Kotranka and Mendhar.

As per the draft, the government would be empowered to allocate districts to different divisions through official notifications, taking into account geographical continuity, administrative convenience and socio-cultural factors. The objective is to address governance challenges in remote and difficult terrains while promoting balanced regional development.

The proposal has been submitted to the Assembly Secretariat and is expected to be taken up during the ongoing Budget session, which resumes on March 27. The session, which began earlier this year, is scheduled to conclude on April 4.