One and a half years after the formation of the government led by Omar Abdullah in Jammu and Kashmir, many legislators across party lines privately admit that power remains concentrated not with elected representatives, but with the bureaucracy functioning under the Union Territory (UT) structure. These MLAs, often referred to as 'invisible MLAs', find themselves struggling to govern despite being voted into power.
The Bureaucratic Stranglehold
The UT structure, established after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, has fundamentally altered the governance dynamics in the region. Unlike a full state, where elected representatives have substantial authority over administrative decisions, the UT model centralizes power in the hands of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) and the bureaucracy. This has left MLAs feeling sidelined and powerless.
According to multiple legislators from both the ruling party and the opposition, their ability to address local issues, sanction funds, or implement development projects is severely constrained. Bureaucrats, who report directly to the LG, often ignore or delay decisions made by elected representatives. One MLA, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "We are like rubber stamps. We attend sessions and pass bills, but real power lies with the bureaucracy."
Impact on Governance
The disconnect between elected representatives and executive power has led to widespread frustration among the public. Constituents approach their MLAs for help with issues ranging from water supply to road repairs, but MLAs are unable to deliver due to lack of administrative control. This has eroded trust in the democratic process and raised questions about the effectiveness of the UT model.
Political analysts argue that this situation undermines the very essence of democracy, where elected officials are supposed to represent and serve the people. The 'invisible MLAs' phenomenon highlights a governance crisis that could have long-term implications for political stability in the region.
Calls for Change
Several political parties, including the National Conference (NC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP), have called for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. They argue that only full statehood can restore the balance of power between elected representatives and the bureaucracy. However, the central government has maintained that the UT structure is necessary for national security and development.
Meanwhile, MLAs continue to struggle with their limited role. Some have resorted to public protests and media campaigns to highlight their plight. Others have quietly accepted the situation, focusing on party work rather than governance. As one senior leader put it, "We fought elections and won, but the real rulers are the bureaucrats sitting in the secretariat."
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of governing under a UT framework. Without meaningful power, elected representatives risk becoming mere spectators in the governance process, leaving the people they represent without a voice.
