Disparity in Social Certificate Distribution Sparks Call for Policy Reform

PDP MLA Waheed Para highlights significant regional disparity in the issuance of social category certificates in Jammu and Kashmir. The data indicates a stark imbalance favoring Jammu, with nearly all Scheduled Caste certificates issued there. Para calls for proportional policy reform to address perceived unfairness.

In a development highlighting regional disparities, PDP MLA Waheed Para has pointed to a significant imbalance in the issuance of social category certificates between Jammu and Kashmir. Para's claims are based on data from the revenue department, revealing a disproportionate allocation favoring the Jammu division over the Kashmir Valley.

The details show that 69,704 Scheduled Caste certificates were issued in Jammu compared to just 474 in Kashmir, which translates to 99.2% versus 0.67%. The imbalance continues across other categories, with Scheduled Tribe certificates also predominantly issued in Jammu at 87.2% compared to Kashmir's 12.7%.

Para condemns these figures as indicative of a "grave breach of fairness" in Jammu and Kashmir's welfare framework, calling for policy revision. He urges rationalization of the reservation policy to reflect the population distribution accurately, emphasizing the need for equitable administrative processes.

(With inputs from agencies.)