Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has issued another termination order against government employees for alleged links to terrorist groups, marking the second such action since Omar Abdullah took over as Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
This latest dismissal has brought the total number of sacked employees to nearly 70 since the revocation of Article 370. In November last year, LG Sinha had terminated two government employees, citing “the interest of the security of the state” after their terror links were established.
The latest order, issued under Article 311 (2) (c) of the Indian Constitution, allows for termination without an inquiry if the President or Governor is satisfied that such action is necessary for state security. One of the dismissed employees was reportedly linked to the Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist outfit.
Political Leaders Call for Fair Inquiry
Reacting to the terminations, Omar Abdullah stated that the dismissed employees should be given a chance to defend themselves. Speaking to reporters in Jammu, he emphasized the importance of due process, saying, “If there is evidence against them (terminated employees) and they are given a chance to justify themselves, but they could not, then it is fine.”
The decision has sparked criticism from political figures. North Kashmir MP and Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) chief Sheikh Rashid met with the LG, urging a re-examination of these cases. Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti wrote to CM Omar Abdullah, requesting the formation of a review committee to reassess the dismissals.
She expressed concerns over the impact on affected families, stating, “The pattern of abrupt dismissal of government employees has devastated many families in the region.”
More Employees Dismissed Over Security Concerns
In the latest order, three more government employees, including a police constable currently in jail, were dismissed for their involvement in activities “deemed prejudicial to the security of the state.” The controversy surrounding these terminations continues to stir political debate, with calls for greater transparency and fair trials for the accused employees.
Comments