Ignoring its own earlier ban on the re-employment of retired government officers, the Omar Abdullah-led administration has initiated a fresh round of contractual appointments, beginning with the engagement of a retired JKAS officer in the Tourism Department.
As per Government Order No. 440-JK(GAD) of 2025, dated April 4, Mushtaq Ahmad Rather (JKAS-Retd.) has been appointed as a Consultant on a one-year contractual basis.
The order, issued by the General Administration Department (GAD), a copy of which is the possession of Srinagar absed news agency Kashmir Dot Com, states that the engagement is subject to one month’s notice on either side and that the officer’s pay will be governed under Article 259-A of the J&K Civil Services Regulations.
The re-employment, however, is in direct contradiction to the Chief Minister’s previously announced directions that barred such appointments, aimed at opening up opportunities for younger professionals and ensuring fresh talent within the system.
“This is nothing short of administrative doublespeak,” said a senior official, expressing concern over the apparent shift in policy without public explanation or accountability. (KDC)
