by Syed Shadab Ali Gillani
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah has addressed public concerns over the state’s reservation policy, ahead of a planned protest by senior party leader Aga Ruhullah Mehdi. The protest, set for Monday afternoon outside the Chief Minister’s official residence on Gupkar Road, is aimed at demanding a fair and rational approach to reservations.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Omar acknowledged the emotions surrounding the issue, reiterating that his government is committed to resolving the matter responsibly. “Peaceful protest is a democratic right, and I would be the last person to deny anyone that right,” he wrote. He also emphasised that the issue was being addressed through proper channels. “Your government is doing what any responsible government would do—making sure everyone is heard, and a fair decision is arrived at after completing due process.”
I understand the emotions surrounding the reservation issue. JKNC had committed to examining all aspects of it in our manifesto released before the assembly elections. It is as a continuation of this commitment that a cabinet sub-committee was constituted to move towards…
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) December 22, 2024
Omar reminded the public that the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference had pledged to review the reservation policy in its election manifesto. He stated that a cabinet sub-committee had already been formed and is engaging with stakeholders. Additionally, he noted that the policy is under review in the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, and the government will respect the court’s final judgment.
Omar’s response came just hours after Aga Ruhullah reaffirmed his decision to lead a peaceful protest. On Sunday, Ruhullah announced that he would stand with citizens demanding rationality in the reservation system, fulfilling a promise he had made earlier this month.
“Today marks the date I had committed to stand with those whose voices demand rationality in the reservation policy,” Ruhullah wrote on X. He had previously urged citizens to wait until December 22 for the government to address the matter. “If the issue was not resolved by then, I would join you in protest outside the HCM’s residence or office. 22nd December ends tonight,” he added.
Today marks the date I had committed to stand with those whose voices demand rationality in the reservation policy. In my response to a post on X (Twitter) by a concerned citizen, I urged everyone to wait until 22nd December to give the elected government time to address this…
— Ruhullah Mehdi (@RuhullahMehdi) December 22, 2024
Ruhullah urged participants to maintain civility and focus on raising genuine demands during the protest. He also called on other political figures to demonstrate sincerity by joining the protest rather than engaging in rhetoric.
“I request all those voluntarily coming to maintain civility and focus on raising genuine demands for a rational reservation policy,” Ruhullah said. “To those who seek to exploit this issue for political gains: I welcome you to step out tomorrow and show your sincerity where it matters—the streets.”
The planned demonstration reflects growing discontent over the reservation policy, with many citizens and leaders calling for greater transparency and fairness. While the government has taken steps to address the concerns, the protest is likely to increase pressure on the administration to act swiftly and decisively.
