The passage of these bills reflects a broader effort to empower local institutions and facilitate greater participation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their own governance. It signals a new era of governance and development in the region, fostering a sense of hope and optimism among its residents.

1. Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 : Spearheaded by Minister of State of Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, the Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 aims to introduce reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in local bodies within the Union territory. This legislative initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing inclusivity and representation in governance structures. Currently lacking provisions for OBC reservation in panchayats and municipalities, the bill seeks to address this gap and promote equitable participation of marginalized communities in local governance processes, thereby fostering social justice and empowerment in the region.
2. Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 : It has been introduced with the purpose of including four communities – Gadda Brahmin, Koli, Paddari Tribe, and Pahari Ethnic Group – in the list of Scheduled Tribes in Jammu and Kashmir. This legislative measure holds significant importance as it represents a crucial step towards recognizing and safeguarding the rights of these communities. By including these communities in the list of Scheduled Tribes, the bill aims to provide them with access to various benefits, protections, and opportunities that are specifically reserved for Scheduled Tribes under government schemes and policies. In response to the discussion on the bill, Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda emphasized that it aims to provide justice to communities that have long sought Scheduled Tribe status. He noted that the repeal of Article 370 has enabled the enactment of these laws.
3. Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2024 : Initiated by Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar, aims to include the Valmiki community as an equivalent to the Chura, Balmiki, Bhangi, and Mehtar communities in the Scheduled Castes list in Jammu and Kashmir.. This amendment seeks to amend the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Castes Order of 1956 to ensure the inclusion and recognition of the Valmiki community. By incorporating the Valmiki community into the list of Scheduled Castes, the bill intends to provide them with access to various benefits, reservations, and protections provided by the government to Scheduled Castes. This legislative measure acknowledges the historical discrimination and social challenges faced by the Valmiki community and seeks to address them by granting them official recognition and representation within the legal framework of Jammu and Kashmir.

Opposition members expressed reservations regarding the three legislations. Neeraj Dangi of the Congress raised concerns about formulating reservation policies without sufficient data on reserved categories. He questioned the feasibility of crafting policies in the absence of such essential information. Similarly, Sandosh Kumar P of the CPI stressed the necessity of having an elected state assembly in Jammu & Kashmir. He also questioned the rationale behind the OBC reservation, citing the lack of available data to support it. While acknowledging the importance of OBC reservation, he emphasized the importance of substantiating such decisions with credible data.

Nityananda Rai emphasized that the removal process of the state election commissioner would adhere to constitutional provisions. He highlighted that removal could only occur under circumstances akin to those of a judge of a high court. With the passage of these bills, the government is poised to implement comprehensive reforms that will promote growth, prosperity, and overall well-being in Jammu and Kashmir. This milestone underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to fulfilling the aspirations of the people and building a brighter future for the region.

By Kashish Jain