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J&K Data Reveals Stark Disparity in Reserved Category Certificates

Official data tabled in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly reveals a severe regional imbalance in the issuance of reserved category certificates. Jammu division dominates, receiving over 92.5% of Scheduled Tribe and a staggering 98% of Scheduled Caste certificates. The disparity is less pronounced in categories like Reserved Backward Areas, which show a near-equal distribution. This data, presented in response to a cut motion, has significant implications for representation and access to government benefits across the Union Territory.

Key Points: J&K Reserved Certificate Disparity: Jammu Dominates Data

  • ST certificates 92.5% in Jammu
  • SC certificates 98% in Jammu
  • Near-equal RBA distribution
  • Data tabled by J&K government
2 min read

Data shows disparity in reserved category certificates between Jammu Division and Kashmir Valley

Official data shows Jammu division receives over 92% of ST and 98% of SC certificates, highlighting a major regional imbalance in J&K.

"Jammu division dominates across almost all seven reserved categories - Official Data"

Jammu, Feb 11

The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday tabled data in the Legislative Assembly showing a disparity in the issuance of reserved category certificates between Jammu Division and the Kashmir Valley.

Official figures presented by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Assembly revealed a significant regional imbalance in the issuance of reserved category certificates between the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

The data was tabled in response to a cut motion moved by Peoples Conference (PC) president and MLA Sajad Gani Lone.

According to the figures, Jammu division dominates across almost all seven reserved categories, with particularly sharp disparities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Scheduled Caste (SC) segments.

In the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, out of a total of 7,49,970 certificates issued across the Union Territory, as many as 6,93,781 were granted in Jammu, accounting for over 92.5 per cent.

In contrast, only 56,189 certificates, or 7.4 per cent, were issued in Kashmir division.

The gap is even wider in the Scheduled Caste (SC) category. Of the 1,41,419 SC certificates issued, an overwhelming 1,39,664 (over 98 per cent) were granted in Jammu, while Kashmir accounted for just 1,755 certificates, representing barely 1.24 per cent.

In the Reserved Backward Area (RBA) category, however, the figures show a near-equal distribution. Out of 1,00,848 certificates issued, 50,982 (50.5 per cent) were granted in Jammu and 49,866 (49.4 per cent) in Kashmir.

Similarly, under the Actual Line of Control (ALC) category, 7,192 certificates were issued in total, with Jammu receiving 6,732 (93.6 per cent) and Kashmir 460 (6.3 per cent).

Notably, all 6,732 International Border (IB) certificates were issued exclusively in Jammu division.

In the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, Jammu again leads with 78,324 certificates (59.8 per cent), while Kashmir accounts for 52,652 certificates (40.2 per cent).

The data highlights variations in the distribution of reserved category certificates, with Valley-centric politicians stating that this has broader implications for representation and access to government benefits across Jammu and Kashmir.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the numbers are stark, we must ask *why* this disparity exists. Is it lower awareness in the Valley? Procedural hurdles? Or a demographic reality? Simply presenting data isn't enough; we need a root-cause analysis and corrective measures.
A
Aman W
The RBA category shows near equal distribution. That proves the system *can* work fairly when implemented properly. The government should study what worked for RBA and apply those lessons to SC/ST categories in Kashmir. J&K needs equity.
S
Sarah B
As an observer, this looks like a classic case of administrative outreach failure. If 98% of a benefit is going to one region, the system has clearly broken down for the other. Hope this transparency leads to better governance. 👍
V
Vikram M
Respectfully, we must also consider population proportions. Jammu division has a larger population of SC/ST communities as per historical settlement patterns. The data might reflect that to some extent. But still, a 92-8 split in ST category seems too large to be just demographic.
K
Kavya N
This isn't just about certificates. It's about jobs, education seats, and welfare schemes. Such a huge imbalance means generations in the Valley might have been denied opportunities. Time for a special drive to ensure no one is left behind. 🇮🇳

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