NEW DELHI: A delegation from the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, led by its National Convenor Nasir Khuehami, met senior parliamentarians Sharad Pawar, Mahua Moitra, and Sanjay Raut on Thursday and discussed flaws in the existing reservation policy and its implications for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The delegation urged them to raise the issue in Parliament.The delegation submitted a memorandum seeking rationalization of the reservation policy, proportional representation, and the implementation of a caste census to ensure justice, equality, and fairness.
The delegation argued that continuing recruitment under the current policy could result in injustice for open-merit students. "When a community is granted reservations beyond its socio-economic disadvantages, the very principle of reservation is compromised," the delegation said. During their meeting with veteran leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sharad Pawar, who has served as Maharashtra's Chief Minister four times, the delegation highlighted the adverse effects of the current reservation framework on merit and equality.
They emphasized that while they are not against reservations or any community, a fair and balanced approach is required to address the policy's shortcomings. Pawar assured the delegation of his support, promising to raise the issue in Parliament, take it up with the central government, and press the Jammu and Kashmir administration to adopt a merit-based approach. Khuehami clarified, “We are not against reservations, but we demand fairness and balance. Our goal is to create a system that supports those in need while ensuring deserving candidates have opportunities.”
The delegation also met Rajya Sabha MP and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut at his residence. They presented the challenges posed by the existing reservation system, emphasizing the need for reform to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for the youth. Raut expressed his commitment to the cause, assuring the delegation that he would bring the matter to Parliament's attention and write to the Union Home Minister, seeking immediate intervention. "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," the delegation informed Raut. Khuehami further stressed the need for merit-based opportunities, highlighting the importance of recognizing individual achievements and ensuring candidates are assessed fairly based on their abilities and dedication.
He stated that the current disproportionate policy undermines the merit-based approach essential for fostering equal opportunities and excellence. In a separate meeting, Khuehami met Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra and sought her support in raising the issue in Parliament. He discussed the necessity of a caste census and proportional representation to uphold the principles of justice and equity. “We believe that a fair and balanced reservation policy will not only uplift those in need but also ensure that opportunities are available to all deserving candidates,” Khuehami stated.
Moitra extended her solidarity with the cause and pledged to advocate for the concerns of the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The association’s memorandum outlined the urgent need for a comprehensive review of the reservation policy, advocating for reforms that balance the needs of marginalized communities with the principles of meritocracy. Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Nasir Khuehami said, “Our fight is not against reservations or any particular community. It is a fight for equality, fairness, and the rightful opportunities that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir deserve. We seek a balanced policy that supports those in need while ensuring that merit and deserving candidates are not overlooked.”
