The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved Rs 3.04 crore from the 2024-25 Capex Budget to purchase eight Toyota Fortuner vehicles for the official use of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The Transport Department issued the order, specifying that the SUVs will be deployed strategically: four in Delhi, two in Jammu and two in Srinagar.

Former Srinagar Mayor Slams Omar Abdullah

The announcement has stirred controversy, with former Srinagar Mayor Junaid Mattu taking to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise the expenditure. In his post, Mattu sarcastically referred to Omar Abdullah as the 'Hon’ble Duke of Essex' and mocked the addition of a personal Range Rover Defender to the fleet.

He wrote, “EIGHT new Toyota Fortuners for the Hon’ble Duke of Essex AND apparently a brand new personal Range Rover Defender. The only thing missing in the fleet is a plane and a yacht over Dal Lake now. J&K’s status was downgraded. Not of the Abdullah Monarchy. Long live the King!"

In another post, Mattu questioned the government’s priorities, writing, “200 units of free power—No business rules, age relaxation for PSI—No powers. Rationalisation of reservations—Sub Committee, but shopping spree for king’s cavalcade—all powers available. Wow.”

The government order mandates that the allocated funds be used exclusively for the purchase of the vehicles. Expenditure certificates and records are to be submitted by March 31, 2025, ensuring financial accountability. According to an India Today report, officials clarified that no new posts for drivers would be created, as existing staff would manage the vehicles. The Transport Department has been instructed to strictly monitor fund usage to prevent any misuse.

This move comes in the wake of Omar Abdullah’s National Conference securing the largest bloc in the recent Assembly elections, winning 42 seats. Abdullah himself won two constituencies, Budgam and Ganderbal, while the BJP claimed 29 seats.