Omar Abdullah betrays Kashmiris yet again

In a recent cabinet meeting, Omar Abdullah addressed the media, presenting his approach to the rationalization of the reservation system. However, his changes, described as merely incremental, have left many, particularly general category students, disappointed. This demographic, primarily consisting of Kashmiris, had been hopeful for a fair adjustment that could provide some relief. Yet, Mr. Abdullah’s announcement has shattered their expectations, as he has failed to meet the 70-80% interim relief they demanded, accompanied by a periodic review of reservations.

Omar Abdullah’s assertion of having increased reservations only slightly, while labeling it as justice, has done little to reassure the general category students. Many find themselves back at square one, grappling with the frustration of unfulfilled promises.

For Kashmiris, who predominantly fall within the open merit category, except for certain regions eligible for RBA reservations, this outcome feels unjust. Despite taking nearly a year to consider the rationalization of reservations, Omar Abdullah’s adjustments have been deemed inadequate by many.

The expectation was that the open merit allocation could have been enhanced to 70% or 80%. This absence of significant reform is perceived as detrimental to Kashmir’s merit-based system. Organizations like OMSA and the General Category Kashmir collective have vocally opposed Abdullah’s decision, dismissing the changes as merely cosmetic.

The call for substantial overhaul remains strong, and the Kashmiri community waits to see what future developments might bring.