Lok Sabha Passes Bills to Modify Scheduled Castes and Tribes Lists in Jammu and Kashmir

The Lok Sabha has passed two Bills to modify the lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Pahari Ethnic Group in the list of STs.

New Delhi: In a significant move, the Lok Sabha on Tuesday passed two crucial Bills aimed at modifying the lists of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Jammu and Kashmir. These amendments seek to include the Pahari Ethnic Group in the list of STs and introduce other changes to ensure equal rights and opportunities for marginalized communities in the Union Territory.

Inclusion of Valmiki Community as Scheduled Caste

The Constitution Scheduled Castes Order Amendment Bill, 2024, proposes to add the Valmiki community as a synonym for Chura, Balmiki, Bhangi, and Mehtar communities in the list of Scheduled Castes in Jammu and Kashmir. This amendment aims to recognize and include the Valmiki community under the umbrella of Scheduled Castes, ensuring they receive the benefits and protections accorded to these communities.

Scrapping of Article 370 Brings Equality

During the debate on the Bill, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar emphasized that the scrapping of Article 370, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, has brought about equality in the region. He highlighted that previous governments had merely used Scheduled Caste individuals as vote banks, neglecting their true welfare and empowerment.

Reassurance on Scholarships

In response to concerns raised by some members, Minister Kumar clarified that the government has no intention of discontinuing pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for SC students. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the education and upliftment of Scheduled Caste communities.

Inclusion of Four Communities in Scheduled Tribes List

The Lok Sabha also passed the Constitution Jammu and Kashmir Scheduled Tribes Order Amendment Bill, 2024, which seeks to add four communities – Gadda Brahmin, Koli, Paddari Tribe, and Pahari Ethnic Group – to the list of Scheduled Tribes in Jammu and Kashmir. This amendment aims to recognize and protect the unique cultural heritage and traditional rights of these communities, ensuring their inclusion and empowerment within the Scheduled Tribes category.

BJP's Commitment to Unity and Equality

Responding to the debate on the Bill, Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda emphasized the BJP government's commitment to the unity and integrity of India. He highlighted that the scrapping of Article 370 has sent a clear message that India stands united, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Minister Munda also addressed the demand for the inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, assuring that the BJP is dedicated to the welfare and development of the people of the Union territory.

Conclusion

The passage of these two Bills in the Lok Sabha represents a significant step towards ensuring equality, inclusivity, and empowerment for marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir. By modifying the lists of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, the government aims to provide these communities with the constitutional safeguards and benefits they deserve, fostering social justice and harmony in the Union Territory.