Jammu and Kashmir National Conference to reshape cabinet without Congress allies

The National Conference, which leads the coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir, has announced plans to restructure and expand its cabinet on October 27, marking a significant political development in the union territory. The exercise will see Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presiding over the oath-taking ceremony at Lok Bhavan Auditorium in Srinagar, where newly inducted or reshuffled legislators will be administered the oath of office and secrecy.

The cabinet expansion comes as the National Conference seeks to consolidate its administrative position following recent electoral developments in the region. The party's move to reshape the council of ministers is expected to address both political representation and administrative priorities within the union territory government.

Notably, the Congress party, which has been an alliance partner with the National Conference, has decided to abstain from participating in the cabinet reshuffle. The Congress's decision to stay away from the ministerial changes underscores shifting dynamics within the coalition arrangement that governs Jammu and Kashmir.

The cabinet restructuring exercise represents one of the significant administrative decisions by the National Conference-led government since assuming office. The specific composition and portfolio allocations for the new ministerial structure are expected to be finalized ahead of the October 27 ceremony in Srinagar.