Srinagar MP Ruhullah Mehdi issued a strong warning to the government on Thursday. He threatened public protests if the administration fails to brief students on the ongoing reservation matter. Mehdi plans to lead a protest on Sunday unless the government meets his demand for student communication.
MP’s Ultimatum and Demands
MP Mehdi used social media to reiterate his commitment to students. He stated, "I have neither forgotten nor left the students alone." He urged the government to engage directly with students. His demand focuses on informing them about specific measures and decisions taken to resolve the reservation issue.
Mehdi affirmed his support for the students’ concerns. He declared he would "walk with them and sit with them" during the planned protest. The demonstration is scheduled for this coming Sunday . It will take place at the same location as a previous protest last year: outside the Chief Minister’s residence in Gupkar.
Background on Reservation Concerns
The core of the dispute involves students’ concerns regarding the existing reservation policy within the Union Territory. Students have voiced dissatisfaction with how the current system operates. MP Mehdi has consistently advocated for these student interests. He previously emphasized the need for a swift resolution to the matter.
Government’s Actions and Timeline
Following a student protest last year, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah established a cabinet sub-committee. This sub-committee was tasked with examining student concerns related to the reservation policy. Its mandate included submitting a detailed report within six months.
On October 16 , Chief Minister Abdullah confirmed that the cabinet had accepted the sub-committee’s report. The report outlined recommendations and findings. This report is now awaiting final approval from the Lieutenant Governor. Students await updates on its contents and implementation.
Previous Actions and Advocacy
This is not Mehdi’s first warning regarding the reservation issue. Last month, he pressed the government to resolve the matter before the end of the Winter session of Parliament. He had also threatened to join quota protests at that time if no decisive action was taken.
However, Mehdi could not travel to Srinagar last month. Flight disruptions prevented his participation in planned activities. A significant protest occurred on December 23 of last year. Students gathered outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence in Gupkar, demanding attention to their concerns. Mehdi’s current protest plan refers directly to this previous demonstration site.
What Happens Next
The government faces a deadline to communicate with students regarding the reservation policy. Failure to do so by Sunday will likely trigger the threatened protest led by MP Ruhullah Mehdi. Students and political observers await the government’s next move regarding this pressing issue.