A Call for Fairness and Inclusivity: Examining Reservation Policy Imbalances in Jammu & Kashmir

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Zahid Bhat:

The reservation policy in Jammu & Kashmir, introduced to counter historical social inequalities, has significantly improved opportunities for marginalized communities. However, recent expansions in reservation quotas have raised concerns about the policy’s impact on open merit candidates who often feel constrained in their educational and employment opportunities. With reserved quotas now accounting for nearly 60% of available seats, only about 40% remain open to general category candidates, which has led to growing concerns about fairness—especially in a region already grappling with high youth unemployment.

Rising Unemployment and Social Pressures

Unemployment remains a pressing issue in Jammu & Kashmir, with a marked disparity in job opportunities between open merit and reserved categories. According to recent data from the Jammu & Kashmir State Employment Exchange, the unemployment rate for youth in the general category stands at approximately 24.6%, significantly higher than both the national average of 6.1% and the rate for reserved categories. Open merit candidates, despite their qualifications, often struggle to secure placements, which exacerbates feelings of frustration and disenfranchisement. This high unemployment rate has broader social implications, as extended joblessness can lead to economic hardship and vulnerability to negative influences, including poverty and substance abuse.

Generational Reservation Benefits and Social Frustration

A significant source of discontent around reservation policies arises from the concept of inherited reservation benefits. While originally intended to uplift historically marginalized communities, these benefits often extend to successive generations within the same families, even as their economic and social status improves. Critics argue that families from reserved categories who have achieved affluence continue to benefit from reservations, while individuals in genuine need remain underserved. The recent inclusion of the Pahari-speaking community under Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservations has intensified these concerns, as some question whether all members of this group are economically disadvantaged or if their inclusion was politically motivated.

Impact on Competitive Exams and Merit-Based Opportunities

In competitive exams for government positions and educational admissions, reservations continue to limit the prospects of open-merit applicants. For example, the recent increase in reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBC) from 4% to 8%, along with new quotas for Scheduled Tribes, has left many high-achieving open merit candidates feeling overlooked. These policies effectively narrow the scope for merit-based selections, often resulting in demotivation and a growing perception that the system is becoming less meritocratic.

Addressing the Imbalances: Policy Reform Proposals

Many in Jammu & Kashmir advocate for reforms that would make the reservation system more equitable, ensuring that open merit candidates are treated fairly while ensuring support reaches those genuinely in need. Some suggested policy adjustments include:

Limiting Inherited Advantages: To ensure quotas benefit those currently in need, a “creamy layer” provision could be introduced. This would limit reservation benefits for individuals from reserved categories who have achieved a certain socioeconomic level, directing resources instead to economically disadvantaged families within these groups.

Economic-Based Reservations: Integrating economic criteria into the reservation system could help reach those in actual financial need, regardless of caste. This approach could ensure that assistance is based on economic hardship rather than solely on social classification.

Focus on Job Creation: Emphasizing job creation across all categories would alleviate pressure on government positions and reduce competition. Developing sectors like information technology, tourism, and agriculture could expand private-sector employment opportunities, addressing the high youth unemployment rate.

Educational Reforms and Scholarships: Expanding merit-based scholarships and grants could provide opportunities for deserving students across both reserved and open merit categories. Conducting regular reviews of educational institutions’ reservation policies could also help maintain balance and fair access to resources.

Transparent Policy Reviews: Instituting an accountability framework overseen by impartial organizations could enhance transparency and adaptability in reservation policies, ensuring they reflect current socioeconomic conditions and benefit genuinely disadvantaged groups.

The Importance of Balanced Inclusivity

While reservations play a crucial role in uplifting marginalized communities, many feel the system has drifted from its original purpose. Open merit candidates in Jammu & Kashmir seek recognition of their achievements while also supporting diversity and aid for disadvantaged communities. Thoughtful policy adjustments could foster a more inclusive society where opportunity and merit coexist. In contrast, a rigid approach risks deepening societal divides.

To build a future based on fairness and unity, legislators, community leaders, and policymakers in Jammu & Kashmir must reassess the current reservation system. A balanced approach—one that addresses past injustices while promoting skill and merit as the foundation of social advancement—could empower both underrepresented groups and open merit candidates, alleviating rising social frustrations and creating a pathway to a just and inclusive society.

Note: Zahid Bhat Independent Research Scholar  you can reach him on zaidubhat@gmail.com