SRINAGAR , OCTOBER ,31:
The Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF), under the leadership of its chairman, A.Q. Wani, expresses grave concern over the recently announced results for the Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) and other civil service selections. Our organization is committed to the fair, transparent, and equitable representation of all communities in the region, and we believe that the current reservation policy, as it stands, has unfortunately proven counterproductive in this regard.
Concerns Over Representation and Open Merit Allocation
The JKCSF highlights a pressing need for an increase in open merit allocation. Currently, the reservation system allows only limited representation through open merit, which does not align proportionately with the general population. Despite open merit categories accounting for around 70% of the population, only 40% of positions are available through open merit selection. This disproportionate distribution raises significant concerns regarding fairness, inclusivity, and the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s administrative landscape.
Counterproductive Outcomes of the Current Policy
The JKCSF underscores that the existing reservation policy, designed to promote equality, is inadvertently creating systemic imbalances that may have far-reaching implications for social cohesion, competitive spirit, and equal opportunity. By limiting open merit opportunities, we risk alienating a considerable portion of eligible candidates whose talents and potential are curtailed, impacting the quality of governance and representation in the long term.
Impact on Long-Term Merit and Equality
Chairman A.Q. Wani calls attention to the broader implications of this policy, emphasizing the need for merit-based representation that aligns with the demographic realities of Jammu and Kashmir. The policy as it stands restricts the full realization of merit-based selection, a cornerstone for sustainable development and good governance. The JKCSF fears that without timely intervention, the policy may inadvertently foster discontent and inequality, hindering progress toward a more inclusive and meritocratic society.
Call for Immediate Policy Review
In light of these concerns, the JKCSF strongly urges the authorities to conduct a comprehensive review of the current reservation policy. The review should aim to create a more balanced, representative approach that better reflects the population demographics and upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and equality. We advocate for a recalibration of the open merit allocation to ensure that no community or group is unfairly marginalized.
The JKCSF stands committed to voicing the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and remains hopeful that policymakers will consider these points to foster a more just and equitable administrative framework.