Calls silence, opposition of ruling party MLAs ‘collective moral failure’
SRINAGAR: Social & student rights activist Er. Ehtisham Khan, has strongly condemned the outright rejection of a Private Member’s Bill seeking rationalisation of the reservation policy in the J&K Legislative Assembly, terming it a “defining moment of betrayal” by the ruling Jammu and Kashmir National Conference.
Expressing deep anguish over the developments inside the House, Khan, in a statement issued here, said that what unfolded was not merely the defeat of a bill, but the “systematic silencing” of a genuine and pressing public concern affecting lakhs of youth across Jammu & Kashmir.
“It is profoundly disturbing that a bill, which sought nothing more than initiating a discussion on rationalisation and safeguarding a fair share for open merit, was met with such indifference and resistance. Denying even a conversation on an issue of this magnitude reflects the sheer disconnect of the ruling establishment from ground realities,” he said.
Khan particularly expressed dismay over the conduct of MLAs from the ruling party who, despite representing constituencies largely dependent on open merit opportunities, chose to oppose the bill.
“What is even more alarming is that several legislators, who owe their mandate to the very sections being adversely affected, displayed an inexplicable lack of courage and conviction. Their opposition is not just political—it is a direct abdication of responsibility towards the youth they represent,” he added.
Khan further pointed out a glaring contradiction, noting that all three members of the cabinet subcommittee constituted to examine the reservation framework were among those who opposed the Private Member’s Bill.
“This raises a serious and unavoidable question—how can the youth of Jammu & Kashmir expect a fair, transparent, and just outcome from a committee whose very members have already taken a definitive stand against even discussing rationalisation? This not only undermines the credibility of the process but also reinforces the perception that the entire exercise is merely procedural, lacking sincerity and intent,” he said.
Referring to the emotional breakdown of the legislator who introduced the bill, Khan said it was a stark reminder of the human cost of political apathy.
“When an elected representative is pushed to such emotional distress while advocating for his people, it exposes the depth of institutional insensitivity. This is no longer a policy debate—it is a question of dignity, justice, and the future of an entire generation,” Khan remarked.
He further criticised the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference for what he described as blatant deviation from its electoral promises, accusing the party of misleading the public during its campaign.
“The same leadership that made tall promises of reviewing and rationalising the reservation framework has now chosen to stand in complete contradiction to its own commitments. This is not governance; this is calculated political convenience,” he said.
Khan also acknowledged and appreciated those legislators who chose to rise above party lines and support the cause, calling their stance “a rare display of integrity in an otherwise disappointing session.”
“This issue transcends political affiliations. It is about fairness, balance, and equal opportunity. Those who stood in support have upheld the spirit of democratic accountability, while others have unfortunately exposed their priorities,” he added.
Reiterating that the demand is not against reservation but for its rational, just, and evidence-based implementation, Khan warned that continued neglect of the issue would only deepen public disillusionment.
“The youth of Jammu & Kashmir are watching closely. Yesterday’s events have made it abundantly clear who stands with them and who does not. This struggle will continue with greater resolve until justice is ensured,” he asserted.