SRINAGAR: National Conference leader and Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Monday spearheaded a peaceful protest outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence, urging a revision of Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation policy.
Ruhullah had announced his participation a day earlier, criticizing the current reservation framework introduced after the repeal of Article 370. He argued that it diminishes merit-based opportunities by reserving 70% of seats for various communities, leaving just 30% for open merit.
Medical and other professional students, claiming the policy undermines talent and fairness, have actively protested. Political figures like Sheikh Abdul Rashid, Junaid Mattu, Waheed Parra, and Iltija Mufti also backed the demonstration against the NC-led administration.
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Addressing protesters, Ruhullah revealed that a group of five students, representing different regions of J&K, including a female delegate, would meet the chief minister to discuss their demands. He assured the crowd, “We will stay here until they return with assurances.”
During the protest, PDP’s Iltija Mufti highlighted the plight of students, saying, “Our youth are grappling with lost opportunities. We expect the chief minister to ensure a fair and timely revision of this policy.”
PDP leader Waheed Parra also criticized the policy’s broader implications, stating, “This isn’t just about reservation—it’s reshaping our cultural and economic landscape, pushing youth into frustration and despair.”
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Later, Ruhullah announced that the chief minister promised to address the reservation issue within six months. Calling it a “positive step,” he expressed hope that the resolution might come sooner, considering procedural hurdles like pending business rules.
“This issue is sensitive and requires thoughtful deliberation. We must allow the system time to resolve it effectively,” Ruhullah concluded, reaffirming his commitment to standing with the youth.