Srinagar 20 / jan /2027 Ishfaq Gowher
Jammu & Kashmir is poised for a significant political development in the coming days, with strong indications of a cabinet reshuffle under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah once the Budget Session of the Assembly concludes. Sources within the National Conference (NC) suggest that the exercise is part of a larger political and administrative recalibration aimed at strengthening governance and responding to internal and external challenges facing the government.
The proposed reshuffle assumes added importance in the backdrop of the Union Territory political framework, where the Chief Minister shoulders a heavy administrative burden. Over the past months, concerns have been raised by several MLAs regarding the concentration of multiple departments with the Chief Minister, leading to criticism that adequate attention could not be given to all portfolios. Party insiders say this has prompted the leadership to consider expanding the cabinet and redistributing responsibilities for smoother governance.
Sources confirm that three new faces are likely to be inducted into the cabinet, with an emphasis on youth, representation, and administrative experience. Although the Congress remains a key ally of the NC, it has reportedly declined to be part of the cabinet under the UT system, clearing the path for the National Conference to fill the vacant ministerial slots from within its own ranks.
Among the names doing the rounds, Tanveer Sadiq, MLA from Zadibal and the National Conference spokesperson, is seen as a strong contender. Representing Srinagar city, Sadiq is also the lone Shia face in the Assembly, and his induction is viewed as an attempt to ensure inclusive political representation in the cabinet.
Another likely entrant is Mian Mehar Ali, MLA from Kangan–Babanag (Wangat), a prominent Gujjar leader and son of senior NC leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmed. His induction would address long-standing demands for Gujjar representation and strengthen the party’s base in central Kashmir and peer pahchal .
The third probable inductee is Farooq Ahmad Shah, MLA from Tangmarg, a former bureaucrat known for his administrative acumen. His inclusion is expected to bring technocratic expertise to the cabinet at a time when governance efficiency remains a key challenge.
Sources also indicate that the reshuffle will not be limited to new inductions alone, with a reallocation of existing ministerial portfolios on the cards to enhance performance and accountability.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary is expected to continue as the principal face of the government in the Jammu region, ensuring regional balance and political stability.
If carried out as anticipated, the cabinet reshuffle could mark a crucial phase in the Omar Abdullah-led government’s effort to consolidate authority, address internal dissent, and project a more responsive and effective administration in Jammu & Kashmir.
