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The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
The Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the former seeking to reserve seats for “Kashmiri migrants, people displaced from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir [PoK] and Scheduled Tribes” in the yet-to-be constituted 114-seat J&K Assembly.
Migrant Quota
The J&K Reservation Bill seeks to replace the term “weak and underprivileged classes (social castes)” in the J&K Reservation Act, 2004 to “Other Backward Classes” as declared by the Union Territory.
The 2004 Act pertains to reservation in appointment and admission in professional institutions for the members of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other Socially and Educationally Backward Classes.
Arguments for a migrant quota:
Underrepresentation: Migrant communities are often underrepresented in elected bodies, despite their significant size and contribution to the economy. This can lead to their needs and concerns being ignored.
Lack of political voice: Without adequate representation, migrants may face difficulties accessing basic services, securing jobs, and participating in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Constitutional right to representation: The Constitution of India guarantees all citizens the right to participate in elections and be represented in elected bodies.
A migrant quota could be seen as a way to ensure that this right is upheld for all citizens, regardless of their migration status.
Economic contribution: Migrant workers contribute significantly to the national economy, particularly in sectors like agriculture, construction, and domestic work. A migrant quota could be seen as a way to recognize their contribution and give them a stronger voice in government.
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