SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has written a letter to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, urging an immediate and comprehensive review of the current reservation policy in the Union Territory. The Association emphasized that this letter is not merely a call to fulfill an electoral promise made by the National Conference but a critical step to ensure fairness and justice for all students.
In its letter, the Association referenced the commitment made in the party’s election manifesto, which assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that the reservation policy would be revisited to better reflect the region’s demographic realities. The Association asserted that this review is essential to uphold the foundational purpose of reservations in India: to redress historical injustices while preserving a meritocratic system.
National Convenor of Association, Nasir Khuehami urged CM Omar Abdullah to initiate a thorough review of the reservation framework to ensure it aligns with justice, equity, and meritocracy. “Our aim is to foster a fair and balanced system that uplifts those in genuine need while ensuring all deserving candidates have access to opportunities,” he said.
Khuehami advocated for Proportional Representation Based on Population, proposing a more equitable distribution of opportunities that reflects the demographic composition of Jammu and Kashmir. He also called for Merit-Based Opportunities, stressing the need to recognize individual achievements and ensure candidates are assessed fairly based on their abilities and dedication.
He emphasized the importance of a Transparent and Inclusive Approach by involving a broad range of stakeholders in the review process to build public trust and accountability. The government should take inputs from students, teachers, and policy experts for reviewing the J-K quota Policy to build trust and accountability.
“We are not opposed to reservation as a concept,” Khuehami clarified, “But we believe in fairness and balance within the system. The current disproportionate policy undermines the merit-based approach essential for fostering equal opportunities and excellence.”