Ever since Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir in the last week of October, there are evident signs of social anxiety among communities in Rajouri and Poonch districts. These two districts along the Line of Control are populated by Gujjars and the Pahari-speaking people –two of the four major social and cultural identities in Jammu and Kashmir. The Paharis are making out a case for their inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes, a demand vehemently opposed by the Gujjars who have been enjoying the benefits of reservation since 1991. The Home Minister hinted at extending reservation benefits to the Pahari people. This has unleashed competitive concerns and doubts among both communities which have otherwise demonstrated exceptionally good social compact over the last two decades. In this episode of The Dispatch, Zafar Choudhary warns against undesired fallout of any political approach causing a wedge between communities and regions. While the two communities should engage with each other in finding out the best possible ways for improving the condition of the poorer among them, the Government should devise a methodology that is neutral of electoral ambitions and is based on scientific and constitutional principles. To add further to the discussion, write to us at [email protected]
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