The National Conference-led government assumed office on October 16, 2024, with Omar Abdullah as CM, following assembly elections held in September-October 2024. Despite a clear mandate, 2025 was largely consumed by disputes over authority between the CM and the LG, affecting governance across districts and at the secretariat.Officials often faced confusion over which directives to implement, as both offices claimed final authority.

Several key administrative matters have fallen victim to the deadlock. The Jammu and Kashmir Service (JKS) exam age limit proposal, increasing eligibility for Open Merit candidates from 32 to 37 years, remains pending in the LG’s office. Similarly, disputes over reservation expansion led to open merit seats falling below 40 percent, prompting objections from the CM. A draft clarifying the rules of business and defining powers of the LG and the government has been pending since May 2025, leaving officials uncertain over the legitimacy of orders.

The transfer of 48 JKS officers in April 2025, deployment of IAS officers to posts reserved for JKS, and prolonged delays in other appointments and security accountability further illustrate the governance paralysis. The CM has termed the dual authority system “a disaster for governance,” highlighting how grassroots issues such as unemployment, health services, infrastructure, and winter preparations have suffered.

The conflict stems from amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, made in July 2024, which enhanced the LG’s powers, particularly over officer postings and transfers, akin to the arrangement in Delhi. Omar Abdullah maintains that the elected government’s mandate is being undermined, while LG Manoj Sinha counters that the administration is functioning within legal provisions and urged the government to “use available powers for public welfare rather than excuses.”

Experts warn that unless a clear division of authority is established, the dual-power system could continue to stall governance, exacerbate administrative delays, and erode public trust in the Union Territory’s political process.