Protests Erupt Over Jammu & Kashmir’s Reservation Policy
Hundreds of students, along with political leaders, gathered outside Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence to demand a review of the reservation policy. The policy, introduced by the Lieutenant Governor-led administration earlier this year, has sparked widespread criticism.
Political Leaders Join the Protest
National Conference MP Ruhulla Mehdi, alongside members of other political parties, including PDP and Awami Itihad Party, participated in the protest. Mehdi had previously called for the demonstration, seeking a rational approach to the reservation policy.
Student Demands for Equitable Reservation
The students’ primary demand is for a fair and non-discriminatory reservation system. They hope the government, which came into power with promises of reform, will fulfill its commitment to rationalize the policy.
Opposition leader Iltija Mufti emphasized that the protest was not political but focused on addressing youth concerns, highlighting that the valley’s political discourse often overlooks their issues.
Policy Overview
The reservation policy, introduced by the LG administration, reduces reservations for the general category while increasing them for reserved categories in jobs and admissions. The changes include 10% reservations for Paharis and three other tribes, alongside an 8% increase for Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
The policy also introduces new castes under the OBC category and grants additional benefits to several tribes.
Government’s Response
In response to the growing discontent, the Jammu & Kashmir government formed a three-member panel to review the reservation policy. The committee, consisting of health, forest, and science ministers, is tasked with evaluating the policy’s impact. However, no timeline has been set for the report’s completion.
Court Intervention and CM’s Assurance
Meanwhile, the Jammu & Kashmir High Court has intervened, seeking the government’s response to a petition challenging the policy. The court has given the government three weeks to respond.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his understanding of the protests, assuring the public that the issue will not be ignored. He emphasized that the government will follow the legal process and abide by the court’s decision once all options have been exhausted. Abdullah further noted that peaceful protests are a democratic right and encouraged the public to remain patient as the review process unfolds.
The Road Ahead
As the protests continue, the Jammu & Kashmir government is committed to reviewing the policy and engaging with all stakeholders to ensure a fair outcome. The final decision will depend on the legal proceedings and the committee’s recommendations.
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