The controversy over Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation policy is set to intensify, with Bahujan Samaj, a group representing various reserved categories, announcing to gherao (siege) the legislative assembly on March 24.
The reservation system, introduced after the abrogation of Article 370, has increased quotas for different categories to over 60 per cent. This has led to opposition from open merit candidates, who make up more than 60 per cent of the population and feel disadvantaged by the policy.
Bahujan Samaj leaders claim that some MLAs, particularly from the Kashmir Valley, are attempting to reduce existing reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
They are strongly opposing a private bill introduced in the assembly by National Conference MLA Bashir Ahmed Veeri, proposing cuts to reservation quotas for SCs from 8 per cent to 4 per cent, STs from 10 per cent to 7 per cent and OBCs from 8 per cent to 5 per cent, instead of increasing it to 27 per cent as demanded by the community.
In response, Bahujan Samaj leaders have vowed to resist the move. The leaders insist they will not allow the rights of SCs, STs and OBCs to be “trampled upon” and have pledged to oppose the move both through protests and legal action.
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The reservation system in Jammu and Kashmir has remained a contentious issue since its revision after the abrogation of Article 370. While the policy increased quotas for certain groups, many open merit candidates argue that it restricts their opportunities by reducing their available seats. The reserved category groups argue that serious action is essential for uplifting historically marginalised communities.
The Omar Abdullah-led government is under increasing pressure, between MLAs pushing for changes and reserved category groups resisting them. A three-member panel reviewing the reservation policy is yet to announce its findings, adding to the uncertainty. With the March 24 protest expected to be a major showdown, the coming days could bring significant political and legal consequences for the region.
