Mehbooba Mufti urges CM to review ‘abrupt dismissal’ of employees

Peoples Democratic Party president and former CM Mehbooba Mufti has written to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah seeking a thorough review into the “abrupt dismissal” of government employees without following the due process by the UT administration.

Over 70 government employees were allegedly dismissed by the L-G administration under Article 311 (2)(c) of the Constitution, which allows the government to dismiss an employee without giving him a chance to explain his/her position.

Stating that she wants to bring the pressing issue to the CM’s attention, one that has deeply impacted countless lives across our region, Mufti in her letter said “the abrupt dismissal of government employees without due process—a pattern that started since 2019—has left many families devastated and, in some cases, destitute.”

The former CM cited the situation of a “dedicated Tehsildar” who allegedly faced dismissal under Article 311, arrest under UA(P)A and years of incarceration before the courts ultimately acquitted him of all charges. She said that he passed away in October this year due to cardiac arrest following this ordeal.

“During a recent visit to the family of Nazir Ahmad Wani in Bellow, Pulwama, I witnessed firsthand the painful consequences of such actions,” the letter mentioned.

“His grieving family, his wife and five children-now confront not only the emotional loss but also significant bureaucratic delays in securing his pension and entitlements. The dismissal of individuals like Wani, without formal inquiry or a chance for defence, affects more than the individuals; it strains their families and creates an atmosphere of uncertainty for all government employees in Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing these injustices is urgent,” the letter read.

She proposed the establishment of a review committee that can systematically reassess such cases. “Conduct fair and thorough reviews of each case, allowing affected individuals or their families to present their side,” she stated.

She also suggested immediate humanitarian assistance. “Prioritise support for families in dire need, like Wani’s, ensuring swift financial relief and processing of entitlements,” Mehbooba Mufti said.

The former Chief Minister has suggested policy reform recommendations. “Develop clear guidelines to prevent similar injustices in the future, mandating full inquiry and legal oversight before any dismissal action. Nazir Ahmad Wani’s case serves as a sombre reminder of the far-reaching impact of administrative overreach. I urge you to take prompt and decisive action to correct these wrongs, bringing not only relief but also justice to those enduring such hardship,” she said.

Impacts families

Dismissal without a formal inquiry or a chance for defence affects not just the employees but also their families. It creates an atmosphere of uncertainty for all government employees in J&K. This gross injustice should be addressed urgently. — Mehbooba Mufti, PDP president