Reservation politics is OK, but can other issue be ignored
By: Mohammad Iqbal Mughal
In the UT of Jammu and Kashmir striving for development, the focus of political discourse often deviates from the pressing challenges that directly impact the daily lives of citizens.
Among these distractions, reservation politics stands out as a divisive and often overemphasized topic, while genuine issues like unemployment, inflation, infrastructure disparity and unscheduled power cuts remain inadequately addressed.
The real issues that need attention
1.Unemployment
With millions of educated youth struggling to find jobs, the unemployment crisis is a ticking time bomb. Jammu and Kashmir is on top of the list regarding unemployment rate all over India.Governments should focus on creating job opportunities, investing in skill development, and promoting industries that can absorb the rising workforce.
2.Inflation
The soaring prices of essential commodities have made life difficult for the common man. Addressing inflation through economic reforms and better fiscal policies should be a priority rather than indulging in reservation debates that seldom lead to practical solutions.
3.Infrastructure Disparity
Uneven development between urban and rural areas is widening the gap in access to basic amenities like healthcare, education, and transportation. This disparity stunts the growth of rural regions, leaving millions deprived of opportunities for a better quality of life.
4.Unscheduled Power Cuts
Frequent and prolonged power outages disrupt lives, businesses, and education, especially in rural areas. Instead of leveraging reservation policies for political mileage, governments should invest in sustainable energy solutions to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
The Problem with Reservation Politics
While affirmative action has its place in addressing historical injustices, its excessive politicization has turned it into a vote-bank strategy rather than a genuine tool for upliftment. The debate on reservation often overshadows more critical discussions and diverts public attention from the real challenges.
Moreover, reservations alone cannot solve the systemic problems of inequality. Empowering marginalized communities requires comprehensive policies focused on education, skill development, and economic inclusion.
A Call to Action for the Government
The government must adopt a responsible approach by shifting its focus from reservation politics to addressing the fundamental issues affecting the nation. Policies should aim to:
- Create an ecosystem conducive to job creation.
- Control inflation through effective economic measures.
- Bridge the rural-urban divide by investing in infrastructure.
- Ensure reliable power supply for all citizens.
By concentrating on these areas, the government can improve the quality of life for all citizens, regardless of their caste, religion, or social background.
Conclusion
It is time to move beyond the politics of division and focus on uniting the nation around shared goals of progress and prosperity. Real leadership lies in addressing the challenges that matter most to the people. Citizens, too, must demand accountability and push for a political narrative cantered on solutions rather than distractions.
Jammu and Kashmir deserves politics that prioritizes development over division, and it is high time we collectively advocate for this change.
(The author is a social and political activist. The views expressed are his own)
