Muzaffar Choudhary
In a recent turn of events, there is growing apprehension and concern regarding the potential grant of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to upper castes in Jammu Kashmir (J&K).
This decision, based on linguistic considerations, not only violates the principles of social justice but also poses a significant threat to the foundational fabric of democracy. The move perpetuates existing social stigmas, derogatory remarks, and discrimination faced by tribal communities, exacerbating the longstanding inequalities they endure.
The classification of Pahari from a linguistic to a tribal group has sparked controversy. The government’s decision to confer Scheduled Tribe (ST) status on Gadda Brahman Padars, Koli, and Syeds Mirs, who are upper castes and don’t meet the Lokur Committee criteria for tribal status, raises concerns.
Moreover, Mirs, Dars, and Syeds are both Pahari and Kashmiri people, leading to questions about how the government will bifurcate them. This move may lead to consequences for historically marginalized real tribals, impacting the tribal identity of Jammu and Kashmir.
The BJP’s attempt to gain support in the Pir Panjal region by granting ST status to these upper castes is viewed skeptically, raising questions about whether it is a strategic move or a genuine effort for inclusivity.
The potential impact on the political dynamics, particularly concerning the influential Gujjar Bakerwal community, should be carefully considered before reclassification. The government must weigh the consequences thoroughly before proceeding with this move.
Centuries of Unjust Treatment
Tribal communities in Jammu and Kashmir have weathered centuries of marginalization, deprivation, and exploitation. Colonialism cast a shadow on our ancestors, systematically oppressing them while the upper castes, including Syeds, Rajputs, and Mirzas, assumed positions of power. This historical advantage has seeped through generations, perpetuating an enduring imbalance of power and resources that continues to plague our communities.
Social Stigma and Discrimination
Despite pockets of progress, tribal communities persistently encounter social stigma, derogatory remarks, and discrimination. Stereotypes of being “backward” or “primitive” persist, eroding our dignity and rights.
Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities perpetuates a cycle of deprivation. The recent decision to grant ST status to upper castes further deepens this injustice, intensifying the existing challenges.
Widening the Gulf
At the heart of a democratic society lies the concept of social justice – ensuring equal opportunities, fairness, and inclusivity, especially for historically marginalized citizens. Granting ST status to upper castes in Jammu and Kashmir widens the gap between the privileged and the disadvantaged, undermining the essence of social justice. This decision disregards the struggles and aspirations of tribal communities, erasing their identity and contributions to society.
The JK Reservation Amendment Bill
The JK Reservation Amendment Bill emerges as an assault on the survival of tribal communities, particularly the 40 lakh Gujjar Bakerwals. Beyond being just a bill, it represents a systematic threat to our existence. The passage of this bill has unleashed a wave of suppression, with peaceful protests denied, and the right to voice our concerns systematically quashed. The question that looms large is: why is the central government silencing tribal voices?
On January 5th, 2020, a 20-year-old Gujjar woman in Zarkan Shalidar village, South Kashmir, faced an arduous journey to deliver her second child. Carried on a wooden stretcher through ankle-deep snow, her husband and some other members trekked five kilometers to the sub-district hospital.
This poignant incident sheds light on the persistent challenges faced by Gujjar Bakerwals during harsh winters. Isolated from the world, their villages lack electricity, plunging them into darkness, while students grapple with unsafe journeys to distant schools.
The government must address these pressing issues. The proposed anti-tribal bill, granting Scheduled Tribe status to upper castes, widens the disparities and is a threat to the survival of the tribal community, their culture, and identity. Urgent measures are crucial to bridge these gaps and ensure an equitable future for the marginalized Gujjar Bakerwal community.
Detentions, Denials, and the Fight for Rights
Over the past 2.5 years, the Gujjar Bakerwals have taken to the roads, raising their voices for their rights.
However, this journey has been fraught with suppression, detentions, and arrests. The essence of a democratic country seems to be at odds with the struggle of the tribal communities as they grapple with the suppression of their voices.
Urgent Concerns: Beyond the JK Reservation Amendment Bill
Recent incidents add urgency to the concerns of tribal communities. The deaths of three tribals in army custody are a stark reminder of the challenges we face.
The government’s implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) on the ground is essential to protect tribal lands from encroachment by entities like the Jammu Development Authority. Despite the existence of FRA, our community faces intolerable behavior, demanding immediate attention.
A Plea for Reflection and Action
As tribals, we urgently implore the government to reflect on the far-reaching consequences of its decisions. The JK Reservation Amendment Bill is a threat to the survival of tribal communities. Rectifying this course is imperative before damage occurs.
Instead of silencing tribal voices, the government should focus on addressing issues faced by our communities. This includes providing better educational facilities, healthcare services, livelihood opportunities, and implementing affirmative action measures to bridge the social and economic divide.
The author is a tribal activist. The views expressed are his own.