Srinagar, Oct 18: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday announced that the Cabinet has accepted the report of the Sub-Committee on the Reservation Policy in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for its formal implementation pending approval from the Lieutenant Governor.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah clarified that the Cabinet deliberated on the Sub-Committee’s recommendations and unanimously decided to forward the report for further action. “The Cabinet sub-committee’s report has been accepted by the Cabinet. The department has been directed to prepare a memo for Cabinet approval, after which it will be sent to the Lieutenant Governor for final clearance,” the Chief Minister said.
Dismissing speculation about possible changes in the existing reservation structure, Omar Abdullah urged restraint and patience until the official notification is issued. “Only the members of the Cabinet know the details of the report. To speculate on what has been increased, reduced, or redefined would be unfair and incorrect at this point in time,” he remarked.
He also responded to opposition parties’ claims that the government intended to reduce the quota for the Resident of Backward Areas (RBA) category, saying such assumptions were baseless. “For me to discuss the contents before the report reaches the Raj Bhawan would not only be inappropriate but also contrary to procedure. Let the process complete; the government will make the final policy public once the Lieutenant Governor approves it,” he stated firmly.
Addressing demands from some sections to release the report before its formal approval, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of adhering to due process and institutional discipline. “No government functions under pressure. There is a well-defined procedure for every administrative action, and that procedure is being followed. It would be improper, even bordering on illegality, to disclose any content of the report before it officially reaches the LG,” Omar Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring that the new reservation policy is equitable, transparent, and consistent with constitutional principles. He said the sub-committee had held extensive consultations before finalizing its report, keeping in mind the aspirations of different social and regional groups. “This process reflects our government’s belief in inclusive governance and fair representation. The objective is to ensure that opportunities reach every deserving section of society without any discrimination,” he added.
The Cabinet’s acceptance of the report marks an important step in revisiting Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation framework, which has long been a subject of debate and regional concern. The government’s approach, Omar Abdullah said, has been guided by the larger goal of balancing social justice with meritocracy while maintaining administrative fairness.
Political observers see the move as part of the Chief Minister’s broader governance reform agenda, which seeks to strengthen transparency and policy accountability in post-reorganization Jammu and Kashmir. Once approved by the Lieutenant Governor, the revised policy is expected to define the contours of reservation across categories, ensuring fair access to government jobs, educational institutions, and other welfare schemes.
Omar Abdullah reiterated that his government would continue to act within the framework of law and due process. “Our focus is on governance with integrity and inclusivity. Every reform we undertake must be rooted in institutional propriety and guided by the principles of justice,” he said, adding that the final decision will soon be communicated publicly after the necessary formalities are completed.