Congress President Slams LG’s Authority to Nominate Assembly Members: “A Dangerous Precedent”
SRINAGAR, Oct 7: Jammu and Kashmir Congress President Tariq Hameed Karra has strongly criticized the provision allowing the Lieutenant Governor to nominate five members to the newly formed Assembly, labeling it as “unconstitutional” and “undemocratic.” Speaking to reporters in Srinagar on Monday, Karra emphasized the need for constitutional integrity, asserting that the power bestowed upon the Lieutenant Governor represents a significant overreach.
In response to inquiries about this controversial provision, Karra pointed out that the Indian Constitution explicitly outlines the processes governing nominations. He referenced the President of India’s authority to appoint members to the Rajya Sabha, noting that even this power is not exercised arbitrarily. “The President cannot act independently; they must operate under the advice of the government, which is represented by the cabinet,” he said, indicating that similar standards should apply in Jammu and Kashmir.
Karra elaborated, stating, “The authority granted to the Lieutenant Governor to make arbitrary nominations is a clear deviation from constitutional norms.” He questioned the rationale behind granting such sweeping powers to the Lieutenant Governor while the President of India is held to a different standard. “How is it justifiable that while the President cannot act unilaterally, the Lieutenant Governor is bestowed with such powers?” he asked, raising concerns about the implications of this power on the democratic framework.
When asked about potential collaborations with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for forming a government, Karra reiterated his long-held position that the Congress remains open to working with any party, organization, or individual that shares the goal of displacing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from power in Jammu and Kashmir. “Our doors are open to everyone who stands united against the BJP’s agenda,” he affirmed.
Karra also weighed in on the recent exit polls released by various media outlets, expressing skepticism regarding their reliability. He remarked, “While some exit polls may accurately reflect the mood of the electorate, others can be misleading and potentially manipulated.” He asserted that the Congress party prefers to focus on actual polling results rather than speculation from exit surveys, emphasizing the importance of transparent and verifiable electoral processes.
