Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that the Cabinet Sub-Committee (CSC) report on reservation policy will be placed before the Cabinet in the coming days, and its recommendations will be duly considered.
Addressing the media in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, the Chief Minister described the launch of train services to Kashmir and the inauguration of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi as a “landmark event” for Jammu and Kashmir tourism and connectivity.
Omar confirmed that the Cabinet is likely to meet within the next few days, during which the CSC’s final recommendations, submitted on Tuesday, will be tabled. “The Cabinet generally meets twice a month. Since the Legislative Assembly is not in session currently, legislation cannot be introduced, but the report will be reviewed,” he said.
The CSC was constituted on December 10, 2024, following widespread protests by general category candidates, who expressed concerns over the reservation quota reaching 70 percent — leaving them with only 30 percent of available government jobs and seats in educational institutions.
The three-member CSC comprised:
- Sakina Itoo, Minister for Health, Medical Education, Education and Social Welfare,
- Javed Rana, Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, and Forest,
- Satish Sharma, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs.
Minister Sakina Itoo had earlier confirmed that the panel had finalized its recommendations and would submit them to the Cabinet for further consideration.
Comments on PM Modi’s 11-Year Tenure
When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 11 years in office, Omar Abdullah responded diplomatically: “People voted for him. He has been re-elected thrice, and that speaks for itself.”
He also reiterated his long-standing demand for restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, expressing hope that Prime Minister Modi would fulfill this commitment.
Security, Tourism & Development
On the security situation in the region, Abdullah acknowledged that development alone is not sufficient, especially in light of the continued attempts by the neighbouring country (Pakistan) to destabilize the region.
“The way our neighbouring country is trying to deteriorate the situation, we need to ensure maximum development takes place in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, adding that development plays a vital role in countering the ill intentions of those opposed to peace and progress.
He also spoke about the impact of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and one local resident, were killed. He noted that tourism had suffered a setback, but efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy and rebuild trust among travelers.
“Jammu and Kashmir needs maximum development. No matter how much happens, it’s never enough,” he added, emphasizing that developmental efforts must continue alongside security measures.
Personal Visit to Aligarh
According to sources, Omar Abdullah’s visit to Aligarh was personal. He was in the city to meet the family of a school friend who had recently passed away.
