Jammu, Feb 20 (JKNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday told the Legislative Assembly that the Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar’s order regulating charity collections during Ramadan was issued after consultations with local religious leaders and community representatives, and not as an act of interference in religious affairs.
Speaking in the House, as per news agency JKNS, CM Omar said certain members had objected to the order, alleging that the government was intruding into religious matters. However, he clarified that the issue was examined and it was found that the DC acted following discussions held ahead of Ramadan.
The Chief Minister said that before the holy month, Deputy Commissioners were asked to coordinate with local stakeholders to review arrangements and address concerns. During such deliberations in Kishtwar, religious leaders reportedly informed the administration that several NGOs surface only during Ramadan to collect donations without proper accountability.
“They collect money in the name of patients or charity, but there is often no clarity on how those funds are utilised. In some cases, even the authenticity of the beneficiaries is doubtful,” Omar said.
He added that genuine charitable organisations suffer due to such practices, and it was on the request of local committees and religious figures that the administration decided to regulate the process to ensure transparency.
The Chief Minister urged legislators not to politicise every matter, particularly those linked to religious sentiments. He stressed that issues of this nature should be addressed through dialogue and cooperation rather than political rhetoric.
Omar Abdullah maintained that the objective of the order was to safeguard public trust and ensure that charitable contributions during Ramadan are used for legitimate and transparent purposes. (JKNS)
