Srinagar, January 25, 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday asserted that all administrative and recruitment processes must be guided strictly by merit, making it clear that examinations should not be politicised on the basis of religion or region.
Addressing concerns over the Judicial Services Mains results controversy in Kashmir, the Chief Minister said those who qualify on merit have every right to their selection.
“Everything should not be seen through religion or region. Some decisions must rest purely on merit. Those who qualify deserve their place,” Abdullah told reporters.
He made it clear that the government would not hesitate to act if concrete proof of wrongdoing is presented.
“If evidence of fraud is brought before me, I am ready to order an investigation. If anyone has used unfair means, cheated or manipulated the examination, there will be a full probe,” he said.
Earlier, the Chief Minister visited Gulmarg to review snowfall-related issues, restoration of electricity and the inauguration of a new ski lift. He said the visit followed complaints regarding snow clearance and power supply, adding that minor shortcomings were being promptly addressed by the administration.
Welcoming the recent snowfall, Abdullah said January had largely remained dry so far and the fresh snow would benefit tourism and help prevent water shortages during summer. He added that more snowfall was expected on January 26 and 27, and efforts were underway to make the ski lift operational within hours.
Referring to winter sports, he noted that the Khelo India Games had faced repeated postponements last year due to delayed snowfall, but expressed confidence that this year’s weather conditions would allow smooth conduct of the event.
On electricity supply, the Chief Minister said heavy snowfall and strong winds had temporarily reduced power generation from 1,700 MW to 100 MW, but availability had improved to over 1,500 MW by Saturday night. He expressed confidence that power restoration in the snowbound areas would be completed very soon.
On the political front, Abdullah reiterated that his party had never supported the division of Jammu and Kashmir.
“We did not want Jammu and Kashmir to be separated. Ladakh was separated, but we want it reunited with J&K. Jammu too should never have been separated,” he said, holding the BJP and its allies responsible for the division.
