J&K terminates services of power dept inspector over terror links

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has terminated the services of a power department inspector after authorities identified alleged terror links associated with his activities. The dismissal represents the latest step in a series of actions taken under special constitutional provisions that have been applied in the union territory since 2019.

The inspector had been employed in the state power utility and was responsible for overseeing electricity distribution in the region.

Official records indicate that the cumulative number of government employees removed from service under these provisions has reached 91 since the beginning of 2019. The count includes a variety of positions across multiple departments, reflecting a sustained and systematic approach to addressing security concerns within the bureaucracy. The figures have been compiled by the administrative office and do not differentiate between the ranks or the specific departments involved.

The legal framework enabling the termination draws from the constitution’s special powers, which allow the administration to act swiftly when national security is perceived to be at risk. These provisions were notably activated following the 2019 reorganisation of the region, which altered the administrative landscape and expanded the scope of applicable measures. The provisions are applied on a case‑by‑case basis, with each dismissal justified on security grounds.

While the precise nature of the inspector’s alleged connections has not been made public, the decision underscores the administration’s focus on mitigating potential threats embedded within its civil service. The move was carried out without the usual procedural safeguards that apply to other civil servants, reflecting the extraordinary nature of the powers invoked. The inspector’s removal was executed by the local administration in coordination with the department’s senior officials.

The latest termination brings the overall tally to 91, illustrating the scale of the operation. Each case has been handled individually, and the administration has emphasized compliance with due process despite the exceptional legal authority granted. The figures have been compiled by the administrative office and do not differentiate between the ranks or the specific departments involved.

The pattern of dismissals follows a broader trend observed in the union territory, where officials have been reassigned or removed on security grounds. The practice has attracted attention from civil society groups, though specific reactions have not been documented in the available reports. Observers note that the continued use of these provisions signals an ongoing commitment to security‑focused governance in the region.

Overall, the termination of the power department inspector adds to the tally of 91 dismissals since 2019, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to security‑focused governance in the region. No further details regarding future actions have been released, but the continued use of these provisions suggests that similar measures may be considered as circumstances evolve.

Source: Hindustan Times