DPs residing in camps should be nominated!
- Any defeated candidate should not be nominated under any circumstances, as he has lost the trust of the people; otherwise, it would become a mockery of the nomination process.
- The VIP POJK DPs residing in large bungalows in Jammu City should not be nominated; otherwise, the purpose of the nomination will be undermined.
RC Sharma Chanakya
Jammu, Oct 08: The results of the Jammu & Kashmir assembly elections have been declared, marking a pivotal moment as the region prepares for its first-ever democratic government following the abrogation of Article 370. Speculation is rife that the government will soon nominate five members to the Legislative Assembly, including two women, two representatives from the Kashmiri Pandit community, and one from the historically marginalized group of POJK Displaced Persons (DPs) from 1947.
While the POJK DPs exceed 1.4 million in number, it is disheartening that only one member is proposed for their representation. In contrast, the Kashmiri Pandit community, which is significantly smaller, is set to receive two nominations. This stark imbalance raises serious concerns about fairness and justice for the POJK DPs, especially under the current BJP government.
A closer examination of the POJK DPs reveals two distinct categories: the VIP DPs, who reside in large bungalows primarily in Jammu City and often exist as mere symbolic figures, and the genuine DPs, many of whom still live in the camps established in 1947. It is essential to note that while the government set up 36 camps at that time for the temporary accommodation of DPs, many genuine DPs remain in these camps today, lacking viable housing alternatives. This situation necessitates urgent attention from the authorities, who must focus on the needs of these genuine DPs.
To ensure equitable representation, the government should establish clear criteria for nominating a genuine POJK DP. This nominee should be a permanent resident of one of the camps, embodying a non-political, non-controversial, and untainted profile. Their longstanding commitment to community advocacy will enable them to effectively raise the fundamental issues faced by POJK DPs in the assembly.
Moreover, the nominee must not be an active member of any political party, as such affiliation would undermine the intended purpose of the nomination. It is also crucial that the individual possesses sufficient educational qualifications to navigate assembly proceedings and articulate the community’s concerns when necessary.
Additionally, the government should refrain from nominating individuals who have previously faced electoral defeat. Doing so would compromise the integrity of the rehabilitation process, transforming the nomination into a refuge for defeated candidates rather than serving the genuine interests of the community.
In conclusion, the representation of POJK DPs in the assembly is not merely a political necessity but a moral obligation to acknowledge their struggles and rights. The government must take decisive action to honor this commitment, ensuring that the voices of this long-suffering community are heard and addressed in the halls of power.
