ibn sultan
Jammu, April 01 : National Conference MLA Dr Bashir Ahmad Veeri broke down in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly while raising concerns over reservation policies and seeking justice for open merit students, witnesses said.
The remarks, made during the Assembly session, led to a brief silence in the House as Veeri made an emotional appeal to the Speaker and the government.
The development is significant as it brings renewed focus on the ongoing debate over reservation policies in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly demands for rationalisation and balance between reserved and open merit categories.
Veeri urged the government to introduce a bill on the issue and consider fixing a cap of up to 65 percent for open merit candidates.
“I have not been able to sleep for the last three days,” Veeri said, adding that concerns raised by students and families had deeply affected him.
He said his children had expressed reluctance to return to Kashmir, telling him that “there is nothing for us here,” reflecting broader anxieties among youth.
The MLA said he had assured his supporters that he would raise the issue in the Assembly and seek corrective measures.
“For God’s sake, let this bill be introduced,” he said, urging the government to use available mechanisms, including referring the matter to a Select Committee if needed.
Veeri also called for amendments to existing provisions, including Rule 17, and pointed to what he described as disparities in categories such as Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and other reserved segments.
He appealed for a comprehensive review to address imbalances and ensure fairness in the system.
The MLA said he had not participated in earlier protests outside the residence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah but had instead chosen to draft proposals within the legislative framework.
Members present said the House observed a pin-drop silence during his speech, reflecting the gravity of the issue and the emotional nature of his remarks. [KNT]
