Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu,(DD): The Jammu and Kashmir government has confirmed that 58 non-local individuals have been granted domicile certificates in Beerwah, Budgam, on the basis of marriage, sparking discussions over residency laws in the region.
In a written response to a query raised by Beerwah MLA Dr. Muhammad Shafi during the Legislative Assembly session, Minister for Social Welfare Sakina Masood (Ittoo) stated that these certificates were issued as per existing domicile regulations. When pressed for details, the minister clarified that all recipients became eligible through marriage.
The revelation has drawn attention to the criteria and verification process involved in granting domicile status to non-locals. While the government maintains that these certificates were issued lawfully, questions are being raised about the broader implications of such policies on local demographics and rights.
Domicile laws in Jammu and Kashmir have been a subject of intense debate since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, which led to changes in residency rules. Under the new laws, spouses of domicile holders are eligible to apply for residency status, provided they meet the necessary documentation and verification requirements.
The issuance of domicile certificates to non-locals, particularly on marriage grounds, is likely to fuel further discussions on the impact of these legal provisions, with political and civil society groups expected to weigh in on the matter in the coming days(DD)