Multi-layered process causing delay in transfer of assets: Hospitality Dept

Jammu and Kashmir’s Hospitality and Protocol Department (H&P) has stated that a multi-layered process involved in transfer of assets by the Toshkhana Department, which was shut in 2022, was causing the delay in transfer of invaluable artifacts and other items that are culturally and historically important for the Union Territory.

The clarification came after some reports stated that there was delay in the transfer process.

The H&P department has stated that the claim of "inordinate delay and lack of coordination" fails to consider the intricate and multi-layered nature of the process.

“Toshkhana assets include historically significant artifacts, precious metals and antiques of immense cultural value. The inventory and handover of such items requires careful, exacting documentation, as well as collaboration across multiple agencies. Due to the historical and irreplaceable nature of these items, it is essential to account for each piece precisely and securely. Moreover, certain items are housed in locations protected by multiple security layers, making access to them logistically challenging and understandably time-intensive,” the H&P Department stated.

“The H&P Department initiated immediate action following the Administrative Council's decision on August 13, 2022, which sanctioned the closure of Toshkhana Organization. In line with this directive, the department promptly initiated measures for asset transfer, issuing necessary instructions to relevant departments. However, the preservation and management of the assets require a collaborative and structured approach. Recognising this, the J&K government proactively constituted specialised committees,” the department stated.

These committees are being led by the Deputy Commissioners of Jammu and Srinagar and comprise experienced, high-ranking officials including the Senior Superintendents of Police, Director, Hospitality and Protocol Department and the Director of Archives, Archaeology and Museums. The committees have a critical role in coordinating across departments, ensuring that each piece within the Toshkhana is carefully catalogued and systematically transferred according to established protocols.

The department further stated: “The Deputy Commissioners in both Jammu and Srinagar are at the helm of these efforts and are fully conscious of the urgency of this issue and have adopted a proactive approach. Under their guidance every efforts being made to expedite the transfer while prioritizing the security and preservation of the Toshkhana items. The committees are implementing streamlined protocols and addressing any procedural delays as they arise. They remain steadfast in coordinating across different administrative branches, ensuring all elements of the inventorying and transfer process is managed with the utmost efficiency and adherence to legal and procedural norms”.