J&K Gujjars seek reservation before 2008 polls

Srinagar, Nov 6 (UNI) Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir have demanded political reservation for the members of the communities ahead of the coming state Assembly elections, scheduled for October-September next year.

This demand was strongly put forth in a special convention of Gujjars and Bakerwals at Tangmarg in Baramulla district.

The convention stressed the need for political reservation to the Gujjars and Bakerwals to ensure their participation in the decision making process in the state.

''When every political party is promising political reservation to Gujjars and Bakerwals then it should be given a practical shape in the Legislative Assembly,'' the speakers said in one voice.

They also demanded establishment of a tribal ministry in the state and amendments in the reservation rules under SRO 294.

The participants also urged the state government to establish colonies for Gujjars and Bakerwals in Jammu and Srinagar besides launching a special recruitment drive for the communities.

UNI