Jammu | March 3, 2025- Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary declared that a key promise to the people of Jammu has been fulfilled, as the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly commenced its budget session in the city. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the session’s opening day, Choudhary emphasised, “There was a promise to the people of Jammu that a session would be set in Jammu, and it has been done.” The statement reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable representation between the Union Territory’s two regions, with the next session slated for Kashmir.
The session, which began today at the Civil Secretariat in Jammu, marks a continuation of the traditional “Darbar Move,” a practice of alternating government functions between Jammu and Srinagar. Choudhary’s remarks come amid the Omar Abdullah-led government’s efforts to address long-standing regional aspirations following years of centralized administration. “What we promised the people—that there will be a Darbar in Jammu—today’s session is proof of that commitment,” he added, underscoring the administration’s intent to honor its electoral pledges.
The budget session, expected to run through early March, will see lawmakers debate critical issues, including statehood restoration—a demand Choudhary has repeatedly championed alongside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Posts on X from regional observers and the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) echoed the Deputy CM’s sentiment, noting the significance of holding the session in Jammu as a step toward addressing local concerns. The government has positioned this move as part of a broader agenda to strengthen governance and foster development across both Jammu and Kashmir divisions.
Choudhary’s address also hinted at upcoming discussions on pressing regional challenges, such as infrastructure, healthcare, and economic growth, which he said would be raised during the session. The Deputy CM’s fulfillment of this promise has been met with approval from local leaders, who see it as a sign of the administration’s responsiveness. As the session unfolds, all eyes will be on how the government leverages this platform to deliver on its wider vision for the Union Territory.