KISHTWAR, Aug 11: Jammu and Kashmir National Confrance Senior leader and Spokesperson of Chenab Valley Region Ajeet Bhagat, said that members of SC, ST, OBC and Sikh communities in the central region of Jammu and Kashmir have expressed serious concern over what they perceive to be blatant discrimination in appointments and adjustments to Deputy Commissioners, higher posts including Administration DCs, Superintendents of Police (SSPs), and also in the higher judiciary at the High Court level and other senior and subordinate ranks.
The Senior National Confrance leader said that it has been observed that one community is allegedly overwhelmingly in the top-level posts, with representation reportedly up to 98 per cent. Bhagat termed this situation as deeply rooted and against the spirit of inclusiveness and equal opportunities.
Bhagat said that people belonging to these communities have pointed out that they are under-represented in key administrative roles across the Union Territories. He stressed that the Constitution of India guarantees equal rights, equal opportunities and social justice to all citizens irrespective of caste, race or community.
For the past 12 years, members of these backward and marginalized communities feel that they have been consistently ignored in the distribution of elite and decision-making positions. This is leading to growing resentment and anger among the affected groups, who term the situation as discriminatory and unfair.
The Senior National Confrance leader respectfully urged the authorities concerned to take cognizance of the matter, review the mode of adjustment, and ensure fair and equal representation for all sections of society in accordance with constitutional principles.
Bhagat appealed for immediate corrective measures to restore confidence among the marginalized communities and uphold the values of equality, justice and inclusiveness, as well as a passionate demand from these communities that the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister should also have a deep insight into the real demands of these communities.