The issue of reservations in Jammu & Kashmir has recently become a focal point of public debate, especially in the aftermath of new amendments and policies affecting employment opportunities. While affirmative action policies aim to provide oequitable representation to marginalized communities, the implementation in Jammu & Kashmir has sparked concerns among general category aspirants, who feel sidelined in the race for government jobs.
Current Landscape of Reservations in Jammu & Kashmir
Post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir witnessed significant changes in its administrative and political framework, including the application of national reservation policies. The reservation system, meant to uplift socially and economically disadvantaged groups, currently allocates quotas to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and others.
The introduction of 10% reservation for EWS, along with existing quotas for SC/ST/OBC categories, has reduced the open merit seats available for general category aspirants. This reduction has caused unease among those who do not qualify under any reserved category, as they now face intensified competition for a limited number of unreserved positions.
Effects on General Category Aspirants
- Reduced Opportunities in Government Jobs
Government jobs in Jammu & Kashmir, a primary source of stable employment in the region, are now more difficult to secure for general category aspirants. With a significant portion of vacancies reserved, the open merit category often accounts for less than half of the total advertised posts. - Meritocracy Concerns
Many general category candidates argue that the reservation system undermines the principle of meritocracy. They contend that candidates with lower qualifying marks are selected for reserved posts, while those scoring higher are excluded from the final merit list due to their general category status. - Brain Drain and Rising Unemployment
Frustration over limited job prospects has prompted many highly qualified youth to seek opportunities outside the Union Territory. This brain drain is a loss for the region, depriving it of talent that could otherwise contribute to its development. - Economic Disparity Ignored
The reservation policy often overlooks economically disadvantaged individuals within the general category. Many aspirants from the general category belong to lower-middle-class or economically weaker backgrounds but fail to benefit from the system due to their non-reserved status. - Social Discontent and Polarization
The current reservation framework has also led to growing resentment among various communities, potentially exacerbating social divisions. This discontent risks fostering a sense of alienation and injustice among general category aspirants.
Voices of Concern
General category students and job aspirants in Jammu & Kashmir have staged protests, demanding either a re-evaluation of the reservation policy or an increase in open merit seats. Their demands include:
- A cap on the total reservation percentage.
- Inclusion of economic criteria as the sole determinant for reservations, irrespective of caste or community.
- Regularizing job recruitment processes to ensure transparency and fairness.
A Way Forward
While the need for affirmative action cannot be denied, policymakers must address the concerns of general category aspirants to maintain social harmony and ensure justice. Possible solutions could include: - Economic-Based Reservations: Expanding EWS reservations to encompass all economically disadvantaged individuals, regardless of caste.
- Balancing Merit and Quotas: Reserving a larger share of seats for open merit while continuing to support marginalized communities.
- Skill Development and Private Sector Growth: Encouraging entrepreneurship and private sector employment to reduce dependency on government jobs.
Conclusion
The reservation crisis in Jammu & Kashmir highlights the delicate balance required between social justice and meritocracy. While reservations play a crucial role in addressing historical inequalities, they must be implemented with sensitivity to the aspirations of all sections of society. Addressing the grievances of general category aspirants is essential not only for their future but also for fostering an inclusive and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.
Mushtaq Bala is Editor-In-Chief of Kashmir Pen and can be reached at mushtaqabala@gmail.com
