MLA Waheed Parra questions NC Govt over withheld Reservation report

SRINAGAR: Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Pulwama, Waheed ur Rehman Parra, has strongly criticised the Jammu & Kashmir Government, led by the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), for what he called withholding a key cabinet committee report concerning reservation and merit.

In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Parra questioned the government’s silence on the report, stating:
“Students are demanding answers, not delays @sakinaitoo ji. Why hold back the cabinet committee report on merit? After your govt’s adverse stand on merit in court, intentions not actions are under question.”

The reference was directed at Sakina Itoo, senior JKNC leader and cabinet minister in the current administration. Parra’s remarks reflect growing unease among students and civil society regarding the lack of transparency on reservation-related policy decisions.

The controversy stems from a yet-to-be-released cabinet sub-committee report believed to contain key recommendations on reservation criteria in education and employment. Student groups and youth organisations have been demanding the public release of the report, citing its direct impact on academic competitiveness and job opportunities.

While the government has yet to issue an official response, Parra’s statement adds to the chorus of voices urging greater clarity and timely disclosure of policy decisions that affect thousands of aspirants across Jammu & Kashmir.

Political analysts believe that the issue could snowball into a larger debate around meritocracy and affirmative action in J&K, especially amid rising public scrutiny of governance and legal interpretations surrounding reservation policy.