Will the J&K Cabinet Meeting Bring Major Changes to the Reservation Policy?
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Synopsis
The Jammu and Kashmir cabinet meeting on December 2 is set to address pivotal changes in the job reservation policy, including an increase in the open merit quota. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact government job allocations in the region.
Key Takeaways
- J&K cabinet meeting scheduled for December 2.
- Possible increase in open merit quota for jobs.
- Amendments to reservation rules under consideration.
- Current reservation stands at 70%.
- Focus on fair distribution among various categories.
Jammu, December 2 (NationPress) The Jammu and Kashmir cabinet, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is set to convene on Wednesday to deliberate on significant matters, including potential modifications to the job reservation policy.
According to official sources, the meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the civil secretariat in the winter capital, Jammu. Key decisions, such as an increase in the open merit quota for government positions and professional institutions, are anticipated.
“The proposal aims to amend the Reservation Rules to optimize quotas in specific categories, particularly for Residents of Backward Areas (RBA) and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), by limiting the EWS quota to a maximum of 10 percent. This change is expected to accommodate the proposed increase in the Open Merit quota, which could rise to 40 percent,” officials noted. The reservations for the RBA, which once stood at 20 percent, have already been slashed to 10 percent, due to concerns that influential individuals were disproportionately benefiting from this allocation.
“Currently, the total reservation in J&K is 70 percent. The largest portion, 20 percent, is allocated to Scheduled Tribes (with 10 percent each for Gujjar-Bakerwal and Pahari Ethnic Tribes), followed by 10 percent for both RBA and EWS, 8 percent for OBC, 8 percent for SC, and 4 percent for ALC/IB residents. Additionally, 10 percent horizontal reservation is granted to ex-servicemen and Persons with Disabilities,” they added.
The Cabinet Sub-Committee (CSC) on Reservation was formed on December 10, 2024, and it submitted its recommendations on June 10, 2025, which are now under review by the State Law Department.
“The Cabinet is expected to finalize these recommendations in the upcoming meeting. All decisions will subsequently require the approval of the Lieutenant Governor,” the sources disclosed.
CM Omar Abdullah has indicated that the cabinet will tackle the issue of rationalizing job reservations in this session. “We were hindered by the code of conduct, which I wanted to avoid sabotaging by going to the Election Commission. Now that the election cycle is concluded, the concerned minister will present the memo in the next meeting for discussion,” he stated.
Point of View
The upcoming J&K cabinet meeting signifies a critical moment in addressing reservation policies. The potential adjustments reflect broader socio-economic considerations, aiming to ensure fairness and equal opportunity in government jobs while responding to public concerns over existing quotas.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main agenda of the J&K cabinet meeting?
The main agenda includes discussions on changes to the job reservation policy, particularly regarding the open merit quota and adjustments to existing reservations.
When is the J&K cabinet meeting scheduled?
The J&K cabinet meeting is scheduled for December 2 at 9 a.m.
Who is leading the J&K cabinet?
The J&K cabinet is led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
What changes are expected in the reservation policy?
An increase in the open merit quota and a potential cap on the EWS quota at 10 percent are expected.
What is the current reservation percentage in J&K?
The current total reservation in J&K stands at 70 percent.
