Omar Abdullah says people seek real governance, not cosmetic name changes
CM asserts performance matters more than renaming institutions amid Raj Bhawan–Lok Bhawan debate
Srinagar, Dec 4: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday stressed that citizens are far more concerned about effective governance than symbolic changes such as renaming institutions. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a public function in Srinagar, he said people judge governments by their performance, not by titles or new labels.
“Changing names is not an issue, but changing the way systems function is what truly matters. People are not interested in nomenclature—they are interested in our delivery on the ground,” Abdullah remarked while responding to the Centre’s decision to rename Raj Bhawans across the country as Lok Bhawans.
He added that cosmetic transformation should ideally be accompanied by changes that strengthen public service. “The name change may give an impression that more work will be done in the interest of people. But honestly, it makes no difference to citizens whether I am called Chief Minister, Mukhyamantri or Wazeer-e-Aa’la. What matters is good governance,” he said.
Turning to administrative issues in the Union Territory, Abdullah revealed that the file concerning the review of reservation quotas has been forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor for approval as of Wednesday. He assured that the matter is being handled with urgency and seriousness.
On the pressing issue of electricity supply during peak winter, the Chief Minister said that the government is committed to maintaining the announced power schedule in the Kashmir valley. “We will make every possible effort to ensure that the electricity roster is adhered to strictly so that people face minimal inconvenience,” he affirmed.
When asked about the steps taken to aid families affected by the Nowgam blast, Abdullah said the government is actively processing their cases for compassionate appointments. “Those who meet the eligibility criteria will receive their rightful due. Wherever norms need to be relaxed to support these families, the government will do so. Once all formalities are completed, appointment letters will be issued,” he assured.
Abdullah reiterated that governance should remain the core priority, emphasizing that real change is reflected not in what institutions are called, but in how they serve the public.
