Srinagar, Oct 17: Waheed Para, youth leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has sharply criticized the Jammu and Kashmir government’s recent decision to reduce the Reserved Backward Area (RBA) quota, calling it a deliberate attempt to marginalize Kashmiris.
In a statement shared on X, Para described the cabinet sub committee’s move to slash the RBA quota under the pretext of “rationalization” as a calculated strategy aimed at disempowering the people of the Valley. He emphasized that the quota has historically protected the rights and representation of Kashmiris in education and government jobs.
“The J&K Government’s decision to cut the RBA quota under the guise of ‘rationalization’ is a calculated attempt to disempower Kashmiris,” Para wrote. He added that the move undermines a crucial safeguard ensuring fair opportunities for residents of backward and remote areas.
Targeting National Conference leader and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Para alleged that endorsing the quota reduction does not defend equity but furthers the disempowerment agenda.
The RBA quota has long been a key part of Jammu and Kashmir’s reservation policy, providing benefits to people from underdeveloped and remote regions, and Para’s statement highlights growing political opposition to its reduction.