J&K High Court asks government to clarify policy on retaining official residences for Azad, Raina

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has formally asked the state administration to explain the policy that permits former officials Azad and Raina to retain government‑provided accommodation. In its order, the court noted that the existing guidelines are ambiguous and that a clear rationale is required to justify continued occupancy by individuals no longer holding official positions.
The bench directed the concerned department to submit a detailed response within a stipulated timeframe, emphasizing the need for transparency in the allocation of public housing.
Legal experts suggest that the court's intervention could set a precedent for reviewing other similar arrangements across the union territory, ensuring that official residences are used in accordance with established rules.
The state government has acknowledged the court's request and indicated that it will provide the necessary clarification at the earliest.
The outcome of this clarification could affect the broader policy framework governing official accommodations in Jammu and Kashmir.