Darbar Move
Srinagar: As part of the recently restored biannual practice known as the ‘Darbar Move’, the offices of the Jammu and Kashmir government closed in Srinagar on Friday and will reopen in the winter capital, Jammu, on November 3, officials said.
The tradition was reinstated by the Omar Abdullah government on October 16, after being abolished by the lieutenant governor’s administration in 2021.
The offices in Srinagar that operate on a five-day week closed after regular office hours on Friday, while those that function on a six-day week will close on Saturday, officials informed, adding that all offices will resume operations in Jammu, the winter capital, on November 3.
Officials also noted that all necessary arrangements have been made for the accommodation and security of the relocating employees, along with transportation from Srinagar to Jammu, to ensure smooth administrative operations.
Due to the move, the traffic department has announced that there will be no movement of goods carriers from Jammu toward Srinagar on Saturday and Sunday.
Meanwhile, the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a notification regarding the Annual Darbar Move for the winter season 2025-26, shifting its principal offices from Srinagar to Jammu.
According to the order issued by M.K. Sharma, Registrar General (Officiating), the Main Wing of the High Court, including the offices of the Principal Secretary to the Chief Justice, Registrar Vigilance, Director J&K Judicial Academy, Registrar Rules, Registrar Computer (IT) and Central Project Coordinator (e-Courts), will close at Srinagar on October 31, 2025 (Friday) after office hours and reopen at Jammu on November 3, 2025 (Monday).
The order further provides that a Special Move Travel Allowance (T.A.) of ₹25,000 per employee will be uniformly paid to all staff members participating in the move. However, the allowance will not be payable to employees who do not move with the offices.
Officials have been directed to ensure that court chambers, offices, and telecommunication systems are fully functional before the reopening date. The Registrar Judicial, Jammu, and the Estates Department have been tasked with making all necessary arrangements in advance.
