The Lok Sabha recently passed the amended Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, a significant step towards providing representation to those who have long been voiceless in the region. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the bill aims to address the concerns of individuals who have endured over 70 years of displacement and injustice.
The primary focus of the bill is to ensure representation for three distinct groups: “Kashmiri Migrants,” “Displaced Persons from Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir,” and Scheduled Tribes in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. By including these communities in the political landscape, the legislation seeks to empower those who have faced displacement and marginalization.
Minister Shah highlighted the importance of justice for those who were compelled to leave their homes and live as refugees in various parts of the country. The bill reflects a commitment to inclusivity and aims to rectify historical grievances, providing a platform for those whose voices have been silent for far too long.
The second aspect of the legislative package involves an amendment to Section 2 of the Reservation Act. This amendment changes the nomenclature from “weak and underprivileged classes (social castes)” to “other backward classes.” This modification signals a shift in language and, potentially, in the approach to addressing social disparities, emphasizing a more contemporary and nuanced understanding of social backwardness.
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A noteworthy provision within the bills is the nomination of two Kashmiri migrant community members, including a woman, to the Jammu and Kashmir assembly. Minister Shah expressed his satisfaction that essential provisions of the bill received unanimous support, underscoring the bipartisan nature of this significant legislative move.
During the parliamentary debate, Minister Shah drew attention to the toll of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that 45,000 lives were lost due to such acts. He emphasized the government’s commitment to eradicating the terror ecosystem in the region. Looking forward, he expressed optimism, asserting that by 2026, he hopes there will be no terror incidents in Jammu and Kashmir.
The passage of the amended Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill represents a landmark moment in the region’s history. The legislation not only addresses the longstanding grievances of displaced communities but also signifies a commitment to a more inclusive and just political landscape. As the nation watches these transformative changes unfold, the hope is that they will pave the way for a more harmonious and secure Jammu and Kashmir in the years to come.