Kashmir's Mirwaiz extends support to protest over reservation policy

Srinagar, Dec 23: Kashmir’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday extended support to a sit-in protest called to demand rationalisation in the reservation policy in Jammu and Kashmir.

While expressing concern, Mirwaiz said that the matter should be addressed with justice and fairness by those at the helm.

Mirwaiz said, he would be part of the sit-in if allowed by the authorities to step out of his residence, adding that he would raise the issue in Jamia Masjid whenever he is permitted to go there.

Taking to micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter), Mirwaiz said: “The issue of reservations should be addressed with justice and fairness by those in charge, safeguarding the interests of all segments of society, not at the expense of any one group. The current status of reservations does that, by undermining the interests of the General/ open merit category. Fervent appeal to address their concerns immediately! Support #openmeritstudentsassociation @OMSA_JK sit in protest”.

“Would be part of it if authorities allowed. My delegation will be there to support. Will also raise the issue in #JamaMasjid whenever permitted to go,” Mirwaiz said on X.

Srinagar MP Ruhullah Mehdi had called for a protest against the reservation policy. His call was supported by PDP MLA Waheed Parra and student associations.