Cabinet Sub-Committee Report Under Consideration
Srinagar/Jammu: IShfaq Gowhar
The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Tuesday informed the Legislative Assembly that the overall reservation in government jobs and professional and academic admissions in the Union Territory stands at 50 percent, excluding the 10 percent reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), besides horizontal reservations.
Replying to a question raised by MLA Mohd Yousuf Tarigami, the government said the reservation policy in J&K is governed by the J&K Reservation Act and Rules, along with subsequent amendments.
As per the official reply, the category-wise reservation in government jobs includes 8 percent for Scheduled Castes (SC) and 8 percent for Other Backward Classes (OBC). Reservation for Scheduled Tribes (STs) is provided under the ST-I category, while ALC/IB communities are granted 10 percent reservation. The EWS category has been allocated 10 percent reservation.
In addition to vertical reservation, horizontal reservations are also applicable, including for Ex-Servicemen and Persons with Disabilities, as per prescribed norms.
For admissions to professional and academic courses, 8 percent reservation is provided to Scheduled Castes, while Scheduled Tribes under ST-I receive reservation as per applicable provisions. Other reserved categories include OBCs, RBA, ALC/IB and EWS, along with 4 percent horizontal reservation for Persons with Disabilities.
Additional horizontal reservations include 3 percent for children of Defence Personnel, as well as provisions for children of Para-Military Forces and UT Police Personnel, and candidates with outstanding proficiency in sports.
Addressing concerns regarding the Supreme Court-mandated 50 percent cap on reservations, the government clarified that the total reservation in Jammu and Kashmir remains within the limit of 50 percent, excluding the EWS quota, along with applicable horizontal reservations.
To examine grievances raised by various sections of society regarding reservation rationalisation, the government said it had constituted a Cabinet Sub-Committee through a government order issued in December 2024.
The House was informed that the reservation policy is reviewed periodically and that the creamy layer principle for OBCs has been duly notified and is being implemented as per established rules. Any future changes will be made based on data from line departments, recommendations of the J&K Socially and Economically Backward Classes Commission (SEBCC) and consultations with stakeholders.
The government ruled out any proposal for region-specific reservation quotas, stating that its focus remains on providing reservation to deserving sections of society to ensure equitable development while safeguarding merit.
Regarding the Cabinet Sub-Committee, the government confirmed that the panel has submitted its report, which is currently under consideration by the competent authority, with further action to follow in due course.
