The reservation system is executed across the globe to boost justice for all and promote fairness for all. Its aim is to provide marginalized communities who have formerly endured discrimination, inequality, or deprivation, a room for progress. But, the implementation of this system may occasionally result in unfairness for open merit candidates, emphasizing the necessity for reforms to create a more balanced and just system.

The objective of the reservation system is to include socially, educationally, or economically disadvantaged groups into the broader society. Yet, at times, this system deviates from its intended goal, benefiting individuals or groups who are already in a favorable socio-economic position. Consequently, not only do deserving individuals miss out on their rightful opportunities, but it also reduces the chances available to open merit candidates.
The existing reservation setup in Kashmir is enforced to open doors in education, employment, and other fields to oppressed classes. When it comes to reservation in Kashmir, the government of Jammu and Kashmir currently made a decision and initiated a recruitment policy. Under this, 575 lecturer posts were announced, with 238 reserved for open merit candidates and 337 for reserved categories. It’s clear that while reservations are valid for reserved category candidates, we also need to affirm that open merit candidates are placed in a welcoming environment so that they don’t feel segregated.
This reservation policy is not confined to the Education Department but is common over all departments in Kashmir. The government needs to pay attention to this reservation approach, analyze how it affects open merit candidates, and find ways to protect their rights. It's imperative to maintain their career advancement and ensure they are given equitable chances without feeling neglected.
The Effects of the Reservation System

Positive Effects

Social integration

The reservation framework has empowered historically excluded populations (Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes) to approach education, employment, and public representation.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the participation of Gujjars, Bakerwals, and other groups under Scheduled Tribe categories has enhanced their social hierarchy.

Intellectual Growth

Many people from deprived communities have achieved from avenues in higher education and scholarships, providing to a reduction in illiteracy and shrinking the educational break. In Kashmir, reservations for backward areas (such as far- flung villages) have promoted educational access in underdeveloped areas.
Economic Upliftment
Proactive measures in public sector employment has increased economic access for excluded groups, reducing poverty in some areas. In Kashmir, reservations for defined groups have encouraged in incorporating underprivileged communities into primary economic sectors.

Representation in Politics

The reservation of seats in legislatures has allowed marginalized communities to have a voice in governance.

Negative Effects

Perceived Discrimination

Critics contend that reservations can occasionally result in reverse discrimination, fostering resentment among marginalized groups, especially the economically disadvantaged sections of upper castes. In Jammu and Kashmir, certain communities feel marginalized from the advantages of the reservation system, prompting calls for their integration.
Restricted Access
The advantages of reservations often fail to reach the most needy within the reserved categories because of a "top-tier" effect, where the more wealthy individuals within these groups gain the majority of the benefits.

Impact on Meritocracy

The system is criticized for potentially compromising merit in education and employment, leading to inefficiencies in some sectors.
Political Manipulation
The reservation system is usually used as a political agenda, with parties assuring increased benefits for political advantage, periodically deepening divisions.
Inter- Group Conflict
In regions like Kashmir, the reservation system has sometimes triggered tensions between communities, especially when new groups are included in the list or when quotas are regarded as limited.
While the reservation system has played a vital role in addressing historical injustices and improving the socio-economic conditions of disadvantaged groups, it also faces challenges related to its by implementation and perceived fairness. In both India and Jammu and Kashmir.
The reservation system is a vital step toward promoting social justice, but flaws in its implementation can negatively impact open merit candidates. To address these issues, it is essential to reform the reservation system so that it reaches the genuinely deserving and preserves the importance of merit.
A balanced and transparent system will not only advance social justice but also protect the rights of open merit candidates. Further contemplation and practical steps on this subject are the need of the hour.

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