A year on, Ruhullah warns of fresh protest over J&K reservation issue

The article title, "A year on, Ruhullah warns of fresh protest over J&K reservation issue," points to a significant and recurring theme in India's socio-political landscape: the intricate and often contentious issue of reservations, particularly in the sensitive region of Jammu & Kashmir. While the specific content of the article is unavailable, the title itself provides enough context to delve into the historical, constitutional, and contemporary aspects of reservation policies in J&K, which are crucial for competitive exam aspirants.

**Background Context and Historical Overview:**

Jammu & Kashmir has a unique history, marked by its special status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution until August 5, 2019. This special status allowed J&K to have its own constitution and a degree of autonomy, which also influenced its reservation policies. Historically, reservations in J&K were governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation Act, 2004, and subsequent rules. These policies aimed to provide opportunities for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Social Castes (OSCs), and residents of backward areas or areas adjoining the Line of Actual Control (LAC)/International Border (IB). The abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganisation of the state into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh fundamentally altered this framework. Post-reorganisation, central laws became directly applicable, including those related to reservations, though specific adaptations were often required.

**What Happened (Inferred from the Title):**

The title suggests a 'fresh protest' warning by 'Ruhullah' a year after a previous event related to J&K reservation. This implies that the underlying issues concerning reservation policies remain unresolved or have been re-ignited by recent developments. Post-2019, the Union Government has made efforts to extend reservation benefits to various groups, including Pahari-speaking people, Gujjars, and Bakerwals, and has also adjusted the quotas for SCs and STs in the newly delimited legislative assembly. While these moves are aimed at inclusive development and redressing historical injustices, they often lead to competing claims and discontent among other communities who fear dilution of their existing benefits or exclusion. The 'fresh protest' could be a reaction to perceived unfairness in the allocation of quotas, the inclusion of new groups into reservation categories, or the quantum of reservations for certain communities in public employment and educational institutions.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

1. **Central Government and J&K UT Administration:** Responsible for formulating and implementing reservation policies, ensuring constitutional validity, and maintaining law and order.

2. **Local Political Parties/Leaders (e.g., Ruhullah):** They often represent specific community interests and articulate grievances, mobilising public opinion and organising protests to pressure the government.

3. **Various Communities:** This includes Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes (Gujjars, Bakerwals), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and newly included groups like the Pahari-speaking people. Each community has specific demands and concerns regarding their representation and access to opportunities.

4. **Youth and Students:** Directly impacted by reservation policies in education and employment, often at the forefront of such protests.

5. **Civil Society Organisations:** Advocate for equitable distribution of opportunities and raise awareness about socio-economic disparities.

**Why This Matters for India:**

The J&K reservation issue carries significant implications for India. Firstly, it touches upon national integration and the successful assimilation of J&K into the national mainstream post-Article 370 abrogation. Equitable reservation policies are critical for fostering a sense of belonging and justice among all communities. Secondly, it affects political stability; unresolved grievances can fuel unrest and hinder the democratic process, especially with impending assembly elections in the UT. Thirdly, it has socio-economic consequences, impacting educational access, employment opportunities, and overall development in a region that has historically faced challenges. Moreover, it tests the principles of federalism and the Centre-State relationship, as the Union Government's policies are implemented in a region with distinct demographic and political sensitivities.

**Constitutional Provisions and Policies:**

The reservation policies in J&K are now governed by several constitutional articles and acts:

* **Article 15 and 16:** Empower the state to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

* **Article 330 and 332:** Deal with the reservation of seats for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, respectively. Post-delimitation, J&K's assembly now has specific reserved seats for SCs and STs.

* **Article 340:** Deals with the appointment of a commission to investigate the conditions of backward classes.

* **The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019:** This Act paved the way for the application of central laws and the redefinition of reservation policies.

* **J&K Reservation Act, 2004 (amended):** Continues to be the primary framework, but has been significantly amended to align with central policies and accommodate new categories (e.g., the recent amendments to include Paharis, Paddaris, Kolis, and Gadda Brahmins in the ST list).

* **Delimitation Commission:** Its recommendations (finalised in May 2022) significantly altered the electoral map of J&K, including the reservation of seats for SCs and STs, which is a direct outcome of the post-Article 370 scenario.

**Future Implications:**

The continued warnings of protests suggest that the government's reservation policies in J&K are still a point of contention. Future implications include:

* **Impact on Elections:** How these issues are handled will significantly influence the upcoming assembly elections, with various political parties vying for the support of different communities.

* **Socio-political Harmony:** The equitable resolution of reservation demands is crucial for maintaining peace and fostering inter-community harmony in the region.

* **Development Trajectory:** Stability is a prerequisite for sustained development and investment. Persistent protests can disrupt governance and economic activities.

* **Precedent Setting:** The approach taken in J&K could potentially set precedents for reservation policies in other sensitive regions or for other communities seeking similar benefits.