Srinagar, Oct 24: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said the expansion and reshuffle of his Council of Ministers would take place in the first two to three days of next week, asserting that the list of ministerial appointments had already been finalised in consultation with National Conference president Farooq Abdullah.
Speaking to reporters here, Omar said he had sought time from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for the exercise during their meeting at Lok Bhawan on Saturday morning.
The Chief Minister said the Lieutenant Governor would decide the time for the exercise, following which the expansion and changes in the Council of Ministers would be carried out.
Omar appealed to party colleagues and MLAs not to approach him or Farooq Abdullah seeking ministerial berths, saying the decision had already been taken.
“After consultations with Dr. Farooq Abdullah Sahib, the list has been finalised. There is no need to knock on Farooq Sahib’s door, my door, or anyone else’s door,” he said, urging aspirants to remain patient.
He also asked party colleagues to refrain from sending WhatsApp messages, making phone calls or submitting biodatas in pursuit of ministerial positions.
“Please stop sending WhatsApp messages. I am receiving endless, lengthy messages… entire books are being written, sending full biodatas as if I don’t know who they are! I already know them and their work,” Omar said.
He added that the exercise would be completed within the next two to three days. (Agencies)