Darbar Move in Jammu & Kashmir

1.      Introduction: The revival of the Darbar Move in Jammu & Kashmir after four years marks the return of a 150-year-old administrative tradition that symbolically unites the culturally distinct regions of Jammu and Kashmir. The practice involves the biannual shifting of the Secretariat between Srinagar (summer) and Jammu (winter) and historically evolved to address extreme climatic variations and ensure administrative accessibility across the erstwhile state. Reinstated in 2025 after its suspension in 2021, the move reflects deeper sociopolitical, cultural, and administrative considerations beyond mere logistics.

2.      Origins & Historical Context:
The Darbar Move began in 1872 during Maharaja Ranbir Singh’s Dogra rule to integrate the culturally diverse regions and ensure accessibility in a mountainous terrain with severe weather contrasts. The tradition survived British rule, the post-1947 political transitions, and decades of conflict, becoming a political and cultural symbol of unity and continuity.

3.      Symbolism & Cultural Integration:
For over a century, the practice reinforced emotional and administrative linkage between Jammu and Kashmir. It encouraged inter-regional movement, commercial exchange, and government presence in both capitals. The Move became part of the shared identity of residents—especially important in a region marked by political sensitivity, ethnic diversity, and psychological division.

4.      Administrative Rationale:
While historically essential due to harsh winters and poor connectivity, the Move also enabled officials to understand regional needs and distribute administrative attention. It balanced representation, fostered inclusivity, and addressed perceptions of regional marginalisation.

5.      Criticism & Decline:
With digital governance, e-office systems, and modern infrastructure, functional necessity declined. The J&K High Court in 2020 questioned its legal basis, termed it inefficient, and criticised the financial burden—estimated at nearly ₹200 crore annually. Environmental concerns such as fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and risks of transporting sensitive documents through mountainous terrain strengthened arguments for discontinuation.

6.      Suspension in 2021:
The UT administration halted the practice citing cost savings, administrative efficiency, and technological alternatives. Public reaction was mixed—some welcomed modernisation, others saw it as a loss of heritage and a blow to regional harmony.