Did PDP MLA in J&K Criticize CAT's Decision on Urdu for Naib Tehsildar Aspirants?
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Synopsis
In a scathing critique, PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para condemns CAT's ruling, arguing that the removal of Urdu as a necessary qualification for Naib Tehsildar undermines J&K's cultural identity. This decision has sparked a significant debate about the role of language in governance and identity in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The decision by CAT has removed the Urdu language requirement for Naib Tehsildar candidates.
- PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para criticized this ruling, emphasizing Urdu's cultural significance.
- The ruling has raised concerns about political influence on judicial decisions.
- Urdu is viewed as a vital part of Jammu and Kashmir's identity.
- New language options for applications include Hindi, Kashmiri, Dogri, and English.
Srinagar, July 15 (NationPress) The Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) MLA, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, expressed strong discontent on Tuesday regarding the Central Administrative Tribunal's (CAT) ruling to eliminate the requirement of Urdu knowledge as a mandatory qualification for the Naib Tehsildar position in the Revenue Department.
Prior to the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of J&K into two Union Territories, namely J&K and Ladakh, proficiency in the Urdu language was crucial for candidates vying for the Naib Tehsildar (Executive Magistrate) role in J&K.
In a statement on X, Para asserted, "The BJP's effort to perceive Urdu through a communal prism represents a perilous and disgraceful low in our political dialogue in J&K. Urdu is not merely a marker of any faith but the vibrant heartbeat of Jammu & Kashmir's identity, resonating with the shared memories and profound struggles of our populace through the ages.
"It serves as the language of poets, courts, revenue departments, administration, and daily life in this region.
"What is even more troubling is the CAT's directive to waive the fundamental requirement of Urdu knowledge for the Naib Tehsildar examination. This indicates that judicial bodies are yielding to political influences. The BJP's objections seem to be molding institutional reactions, a concerning trend in any democracy.
"We must safeguard Urdu, not just as a language, but as a representation of our collective heritage, administrative integrity, and cultural fabric that unites all areas of J&K.
The Services Selection Recruitment Board (SSRB) advertisement that mandated knowledge of Urdu for Naib Tehsildar candidates was contested in CAT.
The CAT ruling stated, "The Jammu and Kashmir Service Selection Recruitment Board is instructed to accept applications for the Naib Tehsildar position from candidates who hold a degree along with proficiency in any of the five languages listed in the Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Act, 2020, which includes Hindi, Kashmiri, Dogri, English, and Urdu."
Point of View
While the debate over language requirements in public service roles is significant, it is crucial to balance cultural identity with administrative efficacy. The decision of CAT raises important questions about the influence of political pressures on judicial decisions. The integration of diverse languages in governance should reflect the demographic and cultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the knowledge of Urdu important for Naib Tehsildar candidates?
Knowledge of Urdu was essential for Naib Tehsildar candidates as it reflects the linguistic and cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir, facilitating effective communication within the Revenue Department.
What was the Central Administrative Tribunal's (CAT) recent decision?
The CAT ruled that knowledge of Urdu is no longer mandatory for candidates applying for the Naib Tehsildar position, allowing for applications from those proficient in other official languages.
What are the implications of this decision?
The decision sparks concerns regarding cultural identity and the potential erosion of Urdu's significance in J&K, as well as the influence of political pressures on judicial rulings.
How did Waheed-ur-Rehman Para respond to the CAT's decision?
Para condemned the decision, emphasizing that Urdu is a core part of J&K's identity and should be preserved as a language of cultural and historical importance.
What languages are now accepted for Naib Tehsildar applications?
Candidates can apply with knowledge of Hindi, Kashmiri, Dogri, English, or Urdu as per the recent CAT ruling.
