Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Mar 25: The much-hyped bill on reservation rationalization introduced by Dr Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri is likely to be taken up in the forthcoming part of session of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, raising fresh hopes among general category students.
Dr Veeri said that he had introduced the bill during the first Assembly session held after the elections and remains optimistic that it will be tabled for discussion in the upcoming session.
“My only demand is justice, which in this case means rationalization of the reservation system,” he said.
The legislator emphasized that reservation should function as a tool for social equity rather than a mechanism that fosters division. “Reservation must be an instrument of equity, not exclusion. What exists today is perceived as unscientific and politically motivated. It betrays merit, divides society, and dilutes the efficiency of professional and public institutions,” he added.
Dr Veeri further underlined that the concept of “open merit” must be safeguarded, asserting that it is not a privilege reserved for a select few but a constitutional necessity. “It is a constitutional requirement. Reform is no longer just a demand; it has become an imperative,” he said.
The MLA said he would continue to advocate for fairness and justice irrespective of personal or political considerations. “I will continue to fight for the people of Kashmir and against injustices, even if it means standing against my own family members, including my father, brother, or relatives,” he asserted.
Pertinently, the reservation policy in Jammu & Kashmir has remained a subject of intense debate in recent years, with various sections of society calling for a review and rationalization to ensure a balance between social justice and meritocracy. (KNO)
