Membership reforms, financial growth, new social programs mark event
CM Omar Abdullah couldn’t participate due to prior commitments
SRINAGAR: The Amar Singh Club in Srinagar convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) amid notable absences and significant discussions on governance, social initiatives, and financial reforms. The meeting, held on Sunday, was marked by the unavoidable absence of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was scheduled to preside but was unable to attend due to prior commitments. In his stead, Mr. Rauf A. Punjabi, a senior Managing Committee member, chaired the proceedings in accordance with Article 30(2) of the Club Constitution.
The AGM commenced with a solemn one-minute silence in memory of distinguished members who had recently passed away, including Muhammad Shafi Pandit, Devender Singh Rana, Prof. Mian Sualeh Mustafa, and others, highlighting the community’s respect for its departed members.
Secretary Nasir Hamid Khan delivered a comprehensive overview of the Club’s recent activities and financial health. He reported a remarkable increase in annual revenue, soaring from Rs. 86 lakhs in 2019-20 to Rs. 4.45 crores in 2024-25. The Club paid Rs. 1.29 crores in Goods and Services Tax (GST) and has more than doubled its workforce. Khan emphasized ongoing investments in infrastructure, including new assets and restoration of existing facilities, funded through the Club’s increased income.
Khan also expressed gratitude toward past Secretaries and senior members, acknowledging their support in the Club’s revival. He highlighted initiatives like ‘Common Interest Conversations,’ which address societal issues such as digital addiction, drug abuse, women’s wellness, and unemployment. Notably, the Club saw a record application from Mr. G. H. Kango, a 90-year-old retired IFS officer, whose request for waiving the probation period was unanimously approved.
Financial transparency was maintained as the audited accounts for 2023-24 were presented and approved unanimously. Members also debated and approved constitutional amendments concerning membership caps, admission fee revisions, and a new category for single women with nominal charges—an addition aimed at promoting inclusivity.
The AGM saw the appointment of M/s Asjad Muhaib & Associates as the Club’s auditors for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
In a significant social initiative, members approved a proposal to revise marriage-related charges. Bilal Ahmed Dar’s suggestion to levy 50% charges for marriages of both sons and daughters and allocate 10% of banqueting income to a fund supporting underprivileged girls’ marriages received unanimous support.
Democratic principles were reinforced when Senior Advocate Jehangir Iqbal Ganie moved and successfully passed a resolution to delete Article 20(4), which restricted members from contesting elections after two consecutive terms. The move, supported by multiple members, aims to bolster democratic participation within the Club’s governance.
Expressing gratitude, Rauf A. Punjabi thanked the members for their active participation and insightful debates, while Nasir Hamid Khan concluded the proceedings with appreciation for the collective engagement.