In a move raising eyebrows, the Union government introduced the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization (Amendment) Bill 2023, proposing changes to the legislative assembly’s composition and reservations in the region. The legislation suggests reserving seats for displaced persons, including Kashmiri Pandits, and nominating members, which critics argue may alter the political landscape.
Key Points:
- The bill proposes five nominated seats, with two representing women—one Kashmiri migrant, and another from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
- The total seats in the assembly increased from 107 to 114 after delimitation in 2020, with 24 reserved for PoK. The bill aims to include Kashmiri Pandits among nominated members, potentially impacting the Muslim-majority balance.
- The legislation categorizes Pahadias as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) with Scheduled Tribe status, ensuring a 4% job quota and nine reserved seats.
- Critics claim the bill overlooks population-based criteria in delimitation, sparking protests in the Valley. Asaduddin Owaisi questions the reservation for Pandits and asserts that displaced Muslims are neglected.
- The bill is seen as a political move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, targeting the Kashmiri Pandit and Pahadia communities.
- Former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah challenges claims of peace and development, citing unfulfilled promises and questioning the government’s efforts in bringing back displaced Kashmiri Pandits.
The controversial bill prompts discussions on its potential impact on the region’s socio-political dynamics and the government’s commitment to equitable representation.
