NC plans MLA advisory groups to address discontent after cabinet expansion

National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah has initiated the formation of informal advisory groups of MLAs to be attached to each minister, in a move aimed at improving coordination between the party and the government.

In a letter to all party legislators, Abdullah said the decision was taken during a recent meeting with MLAs. The proposed groups will serve as a link between ministers and legislators, with ministers expected to hold regular meetings with them and share updates on policy decisions and departmental progress.

The legislators have been asked to submit, in writing, the names of three ministers in order of preference within two weeks. The final groups will be prepared and notified after the preferences are received.

The move comes amid discontent among some National Conference MLAs following the recent expansion of the cabinet. A section of legislators had expressed dissatisfaction over the distribution of ministerial berths and submitted a memorandum to the party leadership seeking the formation of consultative committees attached to ministers.

The proposed advisory groups are intended to give MLAs a structured channel to share inputs, stay informed about government decisions and raise constituency-related concerns.

The arrangement will provide legislators with a formal role in consultation and information-sharing without making changes to the composition of the cabinet.