Court to Hear Challenge on LG Nominations in J&K

A special division bench of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court is set to hear a petition next week challenging the authority of the lieutenant governor to nominate five members to the Legislative Assembly. The petition, filed by Ravinder Sharma, argues that these nominations should require the advice and consent of the Council of Ministers, as outlined in the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act. Chief Justice Tashi Rabstan agreed to expedite the hearing after the Supreme Court earlier declined to address the issue. The case raises significant constitutional questions regarding the governance of the Union Territory, especially following recent elections where the National Conference-Congress alliance gained a majority. Sharma contends that bypassing the council undermines democratic principles and the Constitution's spirit. The hearing is scheduled for the upcoming Monday.