The protests by general category students against the increasing number of reserved seats in education and employment in Jammu & Kashmir intensified on Monday, as demonstrators gathered outside the Chief Minister’s residence on Gupkar Road.
The demonstration, spearheaded by the National Conference’s Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, also saw participation from prominent political figures including Pulwama MLA Waheed ur Rehman Para, Peoples Democratic Party leader Iltija Mufti, Lagate MLA Sheikh Khursheed, and former Srinagar Mayor Junaid Mattu.
The protesting students demanded a reduction in reserved seats from the current nearly 60% to 25%. Additionally, they called for the reversal of a government order permitting reserved category students to compete for general category seats based on merit.
In response, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met with representatives of the Open Merit Students Association at his Srinagar residence. Abdullah, currently focused on addressing the region’s power and water management issues amidst harsh winter conditions, emphasized dialogue and mutual cooperation.
"Today, I met with the representatives of the Open Merit Students Association," the Chief Minister wrote on X. "The beauty of democracy lies in the right to be heard and in fostering dialogue with mutual cooperation. I have made certain requests of them and provided several assurances. This channel of communication will remain open, without intermediaries or unnecessary interference."
Following the meeting, the students stated that the Chief Minister sought six months to address their concerns.
“We presented data highlighting our concerns regarding reservations. While the matter is pending in the high court, the Chief Minister assured us that this would not serve as an excuse. He pledged consultations through a dedicated sub-committee,” said Mir Mujeeb, a representative of the students.
“We are not against reservation for communities that have faced historical challenges. They deserve support. However, the aspirations of open merit students also warrant justice,” he added.
The protests and subsequent discussions underscore the growing debate over balancing affirmative action policies with the aspirations of unreserved category students in the region.
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