Reservation Policy Changes in Kashmir Spark Outcry Over Merit and Fairness

Srinagar: Amendments to the reservation policy in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have ignited protests and intense debates, with critics saying that the Indian government is undermining meritocracy and exacerbating societal divides in the territory.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, under the revised policy, the allocation of open merit (general category) seats has been slashed from 57% to 33%, while reservations for Scheduled Tribes (ST) have been doubled from 10% to 20%. Critics argue that this drastic shift disproportionately benefits reserved categories, leaving general category candidates at a disadvantage. The policy also allows reserved category candidates to compete for both open merit and reserved seats. Under the contentious Rule-17, if such candidates vacate an open merit seat after securing a reserved one, the open merit seat is returned to the reserved category pool. Critics describe this practice as a blatant erosion of fairness in seat allocation.

The reduction in open merit seats has fueled fears that merit-based selection is being compromised, potentially lowering standards across education and employment sectors. Observers have labeled this move as the “death of meritocracy,” warning of its long-term impact on professional competence and development in IIOJK.

Protests have erupted across IIOJK, led by groups like the Open Merit Students Association (OMSA) and supported by civil society organizations and political leaders. Demonstrators are demanding an immediate review of the policy and the removal of Rule-17, which they see as inherently discriminatory against general category candidates. Activists stress the need for a balanced policy that upholds affirmative action while preserving meritocracy to avoid further societal discord.

Many view the policy amendments as part of the BJP’s broader strategy to consolidate its political base in IIOJK. Critics argue that the move is designed to appease reserved category communities while systematically marginalizing others. The changes follow a series of controversial steps taken by the Indian government in IIOJK since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped the occupied territory of its special status. Political analysts suggest the revised reservation policy may serve as a calculated attempt to influence voter demographics, reinforcing the BJP’s grip on the socio-political dynamics of IIOJK.

Observers emphasize the urgent need for a more balanced approach to reservation policies—one that upholds social justice without undermining meritocracy.

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