Due to continuous cross-border tensions, persons living alongside the international border suffer from socio-economic and educational backwardness — according to the Narendra Modi government that has now, by means of an ordinance amending Article 370 of the Constitution, offered them education and employment reservation, which was hitherto enjoyed only by those living near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
New Delhi: Residents of Jammu and Kashmir living in remote areas will soon be eligible for reservation like other citizens as the Cabinet has approved the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) ordinance. The economically weaker sections of the population of Jammu and Kashmir will get 10% reservation in educational institutions and government jobs.
This decision has been implemented already in the rest of the country. This will be in addition to such a quota available in Government of India jobs too. The NDA government has done this by amending Article 370 of the Constitution which gives Jammu and Kashmir a special status to the state.
Earlier, 3% reservation could be enjoyed only by the youth living within 6 km of the LoC. Now, this provision will be applicable for people living near the international border as well.
This has been a long-pending demand of the population living near the international border, as they have been facing the brunt of cross-border firing in Jammu and Kashmir.
After a long wait of 24 years, the 77th Constitution Amendment of 1995 has now been applied to Jammu and Kashmir.
"Due to continuous cross border tensions, persons living alongside International Border suffer from socio-economic and educational backwardness. Shelling from across the border often compels these residents to move to safer places and is adversely impacting their education as Educational Institutions remain closed for long periods," the Union government said.
"Once the ordinance is issued, it would pave the way for bringing persons residing in the areas adjoining international border within the ambit of reservation at par with persons living in areas adjoining Actual Line of Control," the government said.
The decision will give the benefit of promotion to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, which include Gujjars and Bakarwals amongst others.
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