Reservation policy sparks heated exchange in Assembly

Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Thursday witnessed a heated exchange between a legislator advocating for the rationalization of the reservation policy and those representing reserved constituencies.
During Zero Hour, Peoples Conference MLA Sajad Gani Lone accused the government of stonewalling questions and withholding information related to reservation.
“It is deeply concerning that we ask questions but don’t receive answers. I had asked two questions regarding the reservation policy. I consider this a matter of serious issue due to its long-term consequences,” Lone said.
He said the government’s response to his question during the budget session had revealed regional disparities in the implementation of reservation.
“I had asked the General Administration Department about the status of the Cabinet Sub-Committee report and whether data supports the reservation policy. The data lies only with the state government. I had also asked for merit lists and selection lists to understand which region is on the receiving end,” he said.
Lone argued that the existing reservation framework limits opportunities for meritorious candidates. “If reservation had been applied in this manner earlier, would we have the doctors and engineers we see today? They reached those positions through open competition. Increasing reservation now will restrict talent that could represent J&K globally,” he said.
He urged the government to make relevant information public instead of avoiding scrutiny. “There are people who want to research and analyze this issue. The government should provide data rather than block questions,” Lone added.
His remarks drew a sharp response from NC MLA Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, who said such comments ignored the challenges faced by students from remote regions like Gurez.
“You studied in London, while our children study in a school in Dawar where there are no teachers,” Gurezi said.
He pointed out that students in backward areas often study without basic facilities. “There is no science stream in many high schools in Gurez, yet our students sit for the same tests. When a boy from Gurez gets selected, you say he cannot compete. He can, and he is as capable as anyone,” Gurezi asserted.
The exchange led to protests in the House, with MLAs from reserved constituencies standing up to oppose Lone’s comments. The Speaker intervened to restore order, and proceedings continued smoothly thereafter. (KNO)