Sajad Lone Decries Reservation System, Calls for Justice for Kashmiri Speakers
Srinagar, Mar 13, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (PC) President and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone has raised serious concerns over what he termed as the “marginalization” of Kashmiri-speaking residents due to the existing reservation policies. Addressing the Assembly on Thursday, Lone criticized the current framework, arguing that it has led to a steady decline in the representation of Kashmiri speakers in prestigious positions, particularly in administrative services and professional education.
In a statement issued by his party, Lone backed his claims with data, asserting that the reservation system is not merely about providing opportunities but has become a tool of “social disempowerment” for Kashmiri speakers. He painted a grim picture of the community’s declining share in competitive selections, stating that their entry into elite positions is being systematically restricted.
Declining Representation in KAS Selections
Lone presented recruitment statistics to highlight the stark reality of the situation. According to him, Kashmiri speakers comprised only 19 per cent of successful candidates in the Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) selection in 2023, a significant drop from 25 per cent in 2022 and 17 per cent in 2021. This downward trend, he said, is a clear indicator of how the reservation system is disadvantaging the community.
“The mindset of young students has been deeply affected by this discrimination. Kashmiri-speaking people form a distinct ethnic group, yet year after year, they are being pushed out of competitive exams—not due to lack of competence, but because their opportunities are being squeezed,” he stated.
Structural Imbalances in Reservation
Lone further elaborated on what he described as fundamental flaws in the system. He pointed out that while eight per cent of seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs), the Kashmir Valley does not have any SC population, making this an additional burden on Kashmiri speakers.
Moreover, he highlighted that 40 per cent of Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation benefits go to Jammu and 60 per cent to Kashmir, which, according to him, creates an uneven playing field where “Jammu falls under reservation, while Kashmiri speakers are left to compete in open merit.”
Impact on Future Generations
Expressing apprehensions about the long-term effects of this disparity, Lone posed a crucial question to the Assembly: “If this system continues for the next 20 years, how many Kashmiri-speaking officers will we see in the secretariat? Will our future doctors even be able to secure admissions in Government Medical Colleges under these policies?”
Call for Rationalization of Quotas
Lone urged the government to take immediate corrective measures, advocating for a region-wise rationalization of reservation quotas. He stressed that the issue was not just about reservations but about ensuring fair opportunities for Kashmiri speakers.
He called upon the newly elected government to take note of this pressing concern and make amends based on merit. “This is not just about numbers; it is a generational issue that will define the future of Kashmiri-speaking people,” he asserted.
As discussions around reservation policies continue to evolve, Lone’s impassioned plea has reignited debates on the need for a more balanced approach to ensuring equal opportunities across all communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
