Protest Organized by Aga Ruhullah Mehdi MP Calls for Uniformity and Fairness in Reservation Policy in Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 23 :— A protest led by Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from National Conference (NC), took place outside the Chief Minister’s residence in Srinagar, demanding uniformity and fairness in the reservation policy for all sections of society in Jammu and Kashmir. The protest, which saw support from political and social leaders, called for a policy that ensures justice and equal opportunity for every group, without favoring one at the expense of another.

The protest comes in response to growing concerns over the Centre’s move to increase the reservation quota to 70% in Jammu and Kashmir. Recent announcements to introduce a separate 10% reservation for Paharis and other tribes, along with an enhancement of the OBC (Other Backward Classes) quota to 8%, have raised alarm. Critics argue that the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s decision to increase ST reservation by 10% at the expense of open merit is a blatant disregard for meritocracy and fair opportunities. The reduction of open merit to just 30% is seen as a betrayal of 70% of the population, with some calling it “murder” of meritocracy.

Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, addressing the crowd, highlighted that the current reservation policy undermines fairness and justice, urging that the system be adjusted to accommodate the needs of all segments of society equally. “We demand a reservation policy that ensures fairness and justice for all, without undermining the open merit category or creating divisions between communities,” said Ruhullah.

Leaders from various political backgrounds, including PDP’s Waheed Parra, Iltija Mufti, AIP’s Khursheed Rashid, and former Srinagar Mayor Junaid Mattu, stood in solidarity with the cause. They echoed the sentiment that a policy focused on uniformity and justice would benefit the entire region and foster inclusivity.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also expressed his support, offering to join the protest if permitted by the authorities. The protestors emphasized that this movement is about creating a balanced and equitable society where no group is discriminated against, and all are treated with the fairness they deserve.

Social and political activist Hakim Suhail Abbas Kashmiri also voiced his strong support for the protest. In his statement, Hakim Suhail emphasized the importance of a policy that treats all sections of society equally and fairly, without resorting to division. “This is a crucial moment for Jammu and Kashmir. The growing unity of youth leaders across political lines represents a turning point in our political landscape. This protest is not just about reservation; it is about fairness, justice, and inclusivity for all,” said Hakim Suhail.

He further added, “Governance must focus on the welfare of all people, ensuring no group is left behind, especially the open merit category. A just policy is one that fosters unity and prosperity, not division.” Hakim Suhail praised the leadership of Aga Ruhullah Mehdi in uniting different voices for this cause, calling it a significant step toward achieving fairness and justice in the region.

Hakim Suhail also remarked that the unity demonstrated by youth leaders from different political parties for the same cause is a “revolution in itself.” He emphasized, “If these leaders are true in their acts or words, the day is not far when many issues, including the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, can be sorted out mutually by different political parties, without taking credit for themselves for the benefit of vote banks or party interests. This would be for the people, by the people, to the people—the true essence of democracy.”

In a comment on the ongoing protests, social activist Nayeema Mehjoor raised an interesting point: “Is it @JKNC_ protesting against @JKNC_? A bizarre situation in J&K. Let us be honest: @RuhullahMehdi, youth/opposition, and other politicians are protesting against the reservation policy implemented by @manojsinha_ BJP government. Have the courage to say that and fight for genuine rights. @OmarAbdullah must support and join the protest.”

It’s worthy to mention here that both the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, and MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi are from the same National Conference party, adding a layer of complexity to the political dynamics surrounding the protest.

Ruhullah concluded, “We are not here to divide communities or create chaos. We are here to fight for justice, and the government must listen to the concerns of the people. Only then can we ensure a fair and just system for everyone in Jammu and Kashmir.”

The protest has sparked widespread discussions across the region, calling for the government (centre )to reconsider its reservation policy and adopt a more inclusive approach that supports the interests of all sections of society in a fair and balanced manner.