Representation Concerns in J&K Administrative Services
Why in news?
Political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have raised concerns about the 'under-representation' of the Kashmir Valley's population in the list of newly appointed senior-level officers in the Union Territory, terming it 'recruitment apartheid'.
Key points
- Kashmir division received only 18% representation in the latest senior officer appointments.
- This is contrasted with Kashmir's population share of approximately 56%.
- Leaders allege this indicates 'recruitment apartheid' and ethnic disempowerment.
- The issue is being raised in the Assembly to seek legislative remedies.
Background & context
Following the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories, recruitment processes for administrative services are under scrutiny. Fair representation based on population and regional balance is a sensitive issue in the region.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Kashmir valley reportedly received 18% representation in recent senior officer appointments despite constituting approximately 56% of the population.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Federalism, Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, Constitutional bodies.