Jammu: In the wake of the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, shopkeepers from Raghunath Bazaar in Jammu have voiced a strong appeal for the reinstatement of the historic Darbar Move practice, a decision they believe could revitalize the local economy.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Darbar Move, a 149-year-old tradition involving the biannual transfer of the state administration between Jammu and Srinagar, was discontinued in 2021 under the directive of Lt Governor Manoj Sinha. The cessation of this practice has reportedly led to significant economic downturns for local businesses, which previously benefited from the influx of government employees and associated commercial activities.

Shopkeepers are particularly vocal about the impact of this change. Rajesh Gupta, a 52-year-old local merchant, commented, “Our business heavily relied on Kashmiris who visited during the Darbar Move. Since the authorities halted this tradition, not only has our revenue declined significantly, but the cultural and social connection between occupied Jammu and Kashmir has also diminished. For the past three years, shopkeepers here have faced immense challenges as a result.”

Another seasoned shopkeeper, Madan Mohan Sharma, shared similar concerns, stating, “Our business has been suffering ever since the tradition was scrapped. We are hopeful that the new government will fulfill its promises to restore it.”

The sentiment for reinstating the Darbar Move is widely shared among the business community in Jammu, with many believing that its revival is essential for the economic and social rejuvenation of the area. The community remains hopeful, bolstered by election promises made by various political parties to restore the tradition.