TRANSPARENCY IN TRANSFERS IN J&K

The transfer of babus is always a contention between the Centre and states. As expected it has become a bone of contention between the coalition partners in Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP, which shares power with the PDP in the state, often targets the state government over transfers, alleging that “norms” are not being followed and officers of the Kashmir Valley are given postings of their preference. There have also been charges of transfer rules being flouted frequently.

The Mehbooba Mufti government has now directed the formulation of a Cabinet committee, along the Central Cabinet Committee on Appointments, to deal with the issue and fend off the mounting criticism. Sources say that since the beginning of the year, the government ordered transfers and postings of only 24 IAS and 21 Kashmir Administrative Service officers (KAS) with the approval of the state Cabinet while as 41 IAS and 305 KAS officers, including secretaries to the government and above, HoDs, managing directors of PSUs, deputy commissioners and SSPs were transferred without the approval of the Cabinet. The transfer policy has also created resentment among the babus, though naturally they have not voiced their views openly.

Following the CM’s directive, chief secretary B.B. Vyas has reportedly already drafted a proposal to the prevailing practice and introduce more transparency in appointments and transfers.