Srinagar: National Conference MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri became visibly emotional in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, making a passionate plea for the introduction of his private member’s bill concerning the reservation policy.
The Chenab Times has learned that Veeri, addressing the House, shared a personal anecdote about his son’s decision to remain in London due to perceived limited opportunities, underscoring his commitment to advocating for the youth of his constituency. He stated that many of these young constituents, including first-time voters who supported his election campaign, had been assured that their concerns would be raised forcefully, irrespective of the political ramifications.
During his address, Veeri implored fellow legislators to permit the introduction of his bill, framing it as a crucial step for the future prospects of the younger generation. The proposed legislation aimed to increase the open merit quota to 65 percent, ensure the implementation of the Supreme Court’s Indira Sawhney judgment, and rectify existing disparities within the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Available Area Certificate (ALC), and Residents of Backward Areas (RBA) categories.
However, the bill failed to garner sufficient support when it was put to a vote. Only four legislators, all from the opposition benches, voted in favour of its introduction, while members of the ruling party opposed it, leading to its deferral.
Responding on behalf of the government, Minister Sakina Itoo acknowledged reservation as a sensitive issue and assured the Assembly that due procedure had been followed. She informed the House that a cabinet sub-committee, constituted under the directives of the then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, had concluded its deliberations and compiled a report after consulting with various stakeholders within the stipulated timeframe.
The minister further stated that the report has since received government approval and has been forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor for final consideration and decision. She emphasized that the government’s process for addressing reservation matters is designed to ensure equity for all sections of society without succumbing to political pressures.
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