Jammu/Srinagar,September 5 (Scoop News) -In a major initiative, the Scheduled Tribe Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir today offered their full support to Jat community of State in their current struggle for grant of Other Backward Class (OBC) status subject to the condition if their (Jat) community residing in other states of India is ready to support the ongoing Gujjar movements in different States for Tribal identity including the State of Rajasthan where Gujjars are struggling hard for grant of ST status since last 63 years.
In a letter addressed to different Jat Organizations and community leaders sent through Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation –a frontal organization of Gujjars in J&K , the Gujjars of the state asked Jat community to come forward in response to our offer for a United Gujjar-Jat struggle front over the issues pertaining to both communities residing together in 12 states of India.
Giving details Dr.Javaid Rahi, Secretary Tribal Foundation said we are ready to join OBC struggle of Jat if they moblize their community in Gujjar struggle for Tribal status going in different state including in Rajasthan. He said we have wrote to both Gujjars and Jat leaders and organizationstoins working for social upliftment to unite on one stand to take up all ongoing struggles jointly till theirs logical end. Dr. Javaid also asked both community of the state to revive pre-1947 relations and renew Gujjar-Jat Conference which was the leading organization and United Platform of Gujjars and Jats in state before partition.
The letter reads In J&K Muslim Gujjars (ST ) constitutes more than 20% of total population of the state which can play a key role in Jats struggle for grant of OBC status. The letter further said we (Gujjars and Jats) are one and there are hundreds of examples of cross-community Muslim Gujjar- Muslim Jat marriages in State of J&K which are very popular among both communities of twin border district of Rajouri Poonch as there is a good chunk Muslim Jats population are living together with Gujjars in hilly areas of J&K .In J&K there are lakhs of Hindu and Sikh Jats are also residing alongside the Gujjars inhabitants and both communites share many commonalties.
The letter further reads that the Gujjars of Rajasthan are struggling hard for grant Scheduled Tribe (ST ) status and around one 71 people of Gujjar tribe were killed in this historic struggle, the Jats should come forward and support Gujjars in their struggle.
The letter further reads historically, culturally and socially Gujjars and Jats share many similarities and now its need of the hour that we should join hands together for a united struggle for rights of both communities .The Gujjars and Jats together can do wanders in changing social scenario of India, the letter said
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Geelani should correct himself: Gujjars
Srinagar, August 5 (Scoop News) - Re-acting sharply over Huriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s Statement in which he has described Gujjars as different from Muslims and bracketed them as separate religion , the tribal community of Jammu and Kashmir today clarifies that our tribe in the state belongs to Islam religion only.
In a statement issued here by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation –frontal organization of Gujjars reminded Syed Ali Shah Geelani's that J&K Gujjars are Sunni Muslims and not practicing any separate religion other then Islam.
They were reacting over an Interview of Syed Ali Shah Geelani's aired on Private Indian TV Channel today in which Geelani had mentioned Gujjars as different religion separated from Muslims and packaged them with other faiths.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary of Tribal Foundation said that Mr Geelani should correct himself and should talk very carefully about the issues which are very sensitive in nature which effect Religiouse sentiments Gujjars.
In a statement issued here by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation –frontal organization of Gujjars reminded Syed Ali Shah Geelani's that J&K Gujjars are Sunni Muslims and not practicing any separate religion other then Islam.
They were reacting over an Interview of Syed Ali Shah Geelani's aired on Private Indian TV Channel today in which Geelani had mentioned Gujjars as different religion separated from Muslims and packaged them with other faiths.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary of Tribal Foundation said that Mr Geelani should correct himself and should talk very carefully about the issues which are very sensitive in nature which effect Religiouse sentiments Gujjars.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Kashmir Gujjar clan prefers to stay in wooden huts
2010-07-27 15:50:00
The Gujjar clan of Jammu and Kashmir prefers to stay in their traditional wooden huts instead of a house in the valley.
The state government provides all several facilities to the tribes; despite that, they still prefer to reside in their traditional homes.
These wooden huts are known as Kothas and Bandis made up of mud and wood from pine trees.
"It is our traditional way of living. During winters, we take shelter in mountains by making Kothas (Wooden huts) with wood, cover the rooftops with leaves and further paste on it a thick layer of sand. This way we are spending our lives peacefully in Kothas," said Muhammad Younis, a Gujjar.
These wooden huts are divided in two parts, one for their families and other to keep cattle.
"These Kothas have traditional values in our lives. Our ancestors used to stay in it and we are also making it and staying in it. If we would stay in the valley during this season then we would have lost our cattle, as there is no grass left there. The atmosphere is also pleasant here and we are happy staying here during this season," said Muhammad Jamal Banday, another Gujjar.
Gujjars clad constitute a significant proportion of the population of the State. In some states of India, they are classified under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category.
In general, they have nomadic character and largely depend on flocks and cattle keeping for their livelihood.
The major concentration of Gujjar lies in Jammu, Rajouri, Udhampur, Poonch, Uri, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Daksum, Narang and the Kandi areas of the Jammu and Kashmir Division. By Fayaz Ahmad (ANI)
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The Gujjar clan of Jammu and Kashmir prefers to stay in their traditional wooden huts instead of a house in the valley.
The state government provides all several facilities to the tribes; despite that, they still prefer to reside in their traditional homes.
These wooden huts are known as Kothas and Bandis made up of mud and wood from pine trees.
"It is our traditional way of living. During winters, we take shelter in mountains by making Kothas (Wooden huts) with wood, cover the rooftops with leaves and further paste on it a thick layer of sand. This way we are spending our lives peacefully in Kothas," said Muhammad Younis, a Gujjar.
These wooden huts are divided in two parts, one for their families and other to keep cattle.
"These Kothas have traditional values in our lives. Our ancestors used to stay in it and we are also making it and staying in it. If we would stay in the valley during this season then we would have lost our cattle, as there is no grass left there. The atmosphere is also pleasant here and we are happy staying here during this season," said Muhammad Jamal Banday, another Gujjar.
Gujjars clad constitute a significant proportion of the population of the State. In some states of India, they are classified under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category.
In general, they have nomadic character and largely depend on flocks and cattle keeping for their livelihood.
The major concentration of Gujjar lies in Jammu, Rajouri, Udhampur, Poonch, Uri, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Daksum, Narang and the Kandi areas of the Jammu and Kashmir Division. By Fayaz Ahmad (ANI)
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Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Gujjars appeal to PM for special package
Srinagar, June 6 (PTI) Ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's two-day visit to Kashmir from tomorrow, Gujjars of the state have sought a comprehensive socio-economic package to resolve their pending demands.
The demands include opening of a tribal university, inclusion of Gojri language in Eighth schedule of Constitution and a special census of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals.
"Gujjars had been demanding a tribal university in the state prior to 2007 when the first-ever National Tribal University was established in Madhya Pradesh. This demand is still pending with the Centre," said Dr Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, a frontal organisation of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Rahi, Gujjars constitute 20 per cent of the total population of the state.
The demands include opening of a tribal university, inclusion of Gojri language in Eighth schedule of Constitution and a special census of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals.
"Gujjars had been demanding a tribal university in the state prior to 2007 when the first-ever National Tribal University was established in Madhya Pradesh. This demand is still pending with the Centre," said Dr Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, a frontal organisation of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Rahi, Gujjars constitute 20 per cent of the total population of the state.
Gujjars appeal to Manmohan Singh for special package
Srinagar: Ahead of prime minister Manmohan Singh's two-day visit to Kashmir from tomorrow, Gujjars of the state have sought a comprehensive socio-economic package to resolve their pending demands.
The demands include opening of a tribal university, inclusion of Gojri language in Eighth schedule of Constitution and a special census of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals.
"Gujjars had been demanding a tribal university in the state prior to 2007 when the first-ever National Tribal University was established in Madhya Pradesh. This demand is still pending with the Centre," said Dr Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, a frontal organisation of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Rahi, Gujjars constitute 20% of the total population of the state.
The university, if established, could promote studies and research in tribal art, culture, tradition, language, custom, medicinal systems, forest-based economic activities, including special studies in the flora and fauna, and advancements in technologies relating to natural resources of the tribal areas
of the state, he said.
"The case for inclusion of Gojri language in the Eighth schedule is pending with the Union Government since 1991 which is adversely affecting the development of tribal culture of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir," said Rahi.
The community demanded that a special census be conducted of lakhs of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir who are presently under seasonal migration along with their livestock in the upper reaches of Northwestern Himalayas.
He said Gujjars are demanding raising of a full-fledged 'Gujjar Regiment' in the Army on the pattern of Jat, Rajput and Dogra Regiments since 1947, which is still pending with the Union Government.
The organisation also appealed to the PM to provide a "special rehabilitation package" for lakhs of Gujjars and Bakerwals in the state, besides constituting a task force to ensure speedy implementation of development schemes in Gujjar-populated areas.
The community demanded job share in central government and special employment drive for Gujjars.
The demands include opening of a tribal university, inclusion of Gojri language in Eighth schedule of Constitution and a special census of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals.
"Gujjars had been demanding a tribal university in the state prior to 2007 when the first-ever National Tribal University was established in Madhya Pradesh. This demand is still pending with the Centre," said Dr Javaid Rahi, National Secretary of Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, a frontal organisation of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Rahi, Gujjars constitute 20% of the total population of the state.
The university, if established, could promote studies and research in tribal art, culture, tradition, language, custom, medicinal systems, forest-based economic activities, including special studies in the flora and fauna, and advancements in technologies relating to natural resources of the tribal areas
of the state, he said.
"The case for inclusion of Gojri language in the Eighth schedule is pending with the Union Government since 1991 which is adversely affecting the development of tribal culture of Gujjars in Jammu and Kashmir," said Rahi.
The community demanded that a special census be conducted of lakhs of nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir who are presently under seasonal migration along with their livestock in the upper reaches of Northwestern Himalayas.
He said Gujjars are demanding raising of a full-fledged 'Gujjar Regiment' in the Army on the pattern of Jat, Rajput and Dogra Regiments since 1947, which is still pending with the Union Government.
The organisation also appealed to the PM to provide a "special rehabilitation package" for lakhs of Gujjars and Bakerwals in the state, besides constituting a task force to ensure speedy implementation of development schemes in Gujjar-populated areas.
The community demanded job share in central government and special employment drive for Gujjars.
Thousands of cattle perish due to untimely snowfall
Jammu, June 4 (PTI) A large number of cattle have died in Warwan region in Jammu and Kashmir due to the unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said today.
Inhabitants of Warwan in Kishtwar district, the nomad Gujjars, have reported to police that about 32,254 cattle heads have perished in the pasture region due to the recent unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said.
This information that 12,557 sheep, 16,869 goats, 1,460 horses and 1,368 cows have died due to extreme weather conditions, has been provide to police by the nomads through applications at various special police camps in the area, police said.
They said that joint teams of Revenue, Forest and Police Departments are verifying these figures on the ground by visiting the area to ascertain the exact quantum of loss of the Nomadic community
Inhabitants of Warwan in Kishtwar district, the nomad Gujjars, have reported to police that about 32,254 cattle heads have perished in the pasture region due to the recent unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said.
This information that 12,557 sheep, 16,869 goats, 1,460 horses and 1,368 cows have died due to extreme weather conditions, has been provide to police by the nomads through applications at various special police camps in the area, police said.
They said that joint teams of Revenue, Forest and Police Departments are verifying these figures on the ground by visiting the area to ascertain the exact quantum of loss of the Nomadic community
Thousands of cattle perish due to untimely snowfall
Jammu, June 4 (PTI) A large number of cattle have died in Warwan region in Jammu and Kashmir due to the unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said today.
Inhabitants of Warwan in Kishtwar district, the nomad Gujjars, have reported to police that about 32,254 cattle heads have perished in the pasture region due to the recent unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said.
This information that 12,557 sheep, 16,869 goats, 1,460 horses and 1,368 cows have died due to extreme weather conditions, has been provide to police by the nomads through applications at various special police camps in the area, police said.
They said that joint teams of Revenue, Forest and Police Departments are verifying these figures on the ground by visiting the area to ascertain the exact quantum of loss of the Nomadic community
Inhabitants of Warwan in Kishtwar district, the nomad Gujjars, have reported to police that about 32,254 cattle heads have perished in the pasture region due to the recent unseasonal heavy snowfall, police said.
This information that 12,557 sheep, 16,869 goats, 1,460 horses and 1,368 cows have died due to extreme weather conditions, has been provide to police by the nomads through applications at various special police camps in the area, police said.
They said that joint teams of Revenue, Forest and Police Departments are verifying these figures on the ground by visiting the area to ascertain the exact quantum of loss of the Nomadic community
Gujjars call off June 13 rally
The Gujjar faction led by former MLA Ramveer Singh Bidhuri has back tracked from its earlier call to organise a state-wide strike on June 13 to press for their demand of five per cent reservation for the community. The breakaway group has now given a call to protest at district level on June 16.
On the other hand, Rajasthan Gujjar Yuva Mahasbha said that a handful of outsiders were inciting the Gujjars while the BJP is backing them.
The breakaway group also formed Gujjar Arkshan Samiti headed by Mr Bidhuri.
Talking to media persons, Mr Bidhuri and BJP MLA Hem Singh Bhadana said Gujjar leader K.S. Bainsla betrayed the community. Besides Mr Bhadana, former BJP ministers Nathu Singh and Kalu Lal Gujjar were also made members of the samiti. Barring Mr Bidhuri, most of the samiti leaders come from the saffron party.
Mr Bidhuri said the community had rejected the peace accord signed by Mr Bainsla with chief minister Ashok Gehlot.
“Ours will be a peaceful agitation. If the government fails to address our cause, it may go in any direction,” Mr Bidhuri warned. The same group had organised a Mahapanchayat at Matrakundia under Chittorgarh district only last month, but got little support. Gujjar Yuva Mahasabha president Vikram Gujjar said only few outsiders were trying to make their own political base in Rajasthan.
“Why are they not serving Gujjars in their own states like Haryana and Uttar Pardesh?” he asks. He said the state government had given what it could give and the Gujjars endorsed the peace pact.
The Gujjar agitation brought leaders from the neighbouring states to try their luck in Lok Sabha elections. One of them, Rajendra Bidhuri got elected from Begu seat under Chittorgarh district to the Assembly.
Another Gujjar leader from Harayana, S.S. Jonpuria, first tried to get a Congress ticket for Lok Sabha.
On the other hand, Rajasthan Gujjar Yuva Mahasbha said that a handful of outsiders were inciting the Gujjars while the BJP is backing them.
The breakaway group also formed Gujjar Arkshan Samiti headed by Mr Bidhuri.
Talking to media persons, Mr Bidhuri and BJP MLA Hem Singh Bhadana said Gujjar leader K.S. Bainsla betrayed the community. Besides Mr Bhadana, former BJP ministers Nathu Singh and Kalu Lal Gujjar were also made members of the samiti. Barring Mr Bidhuri, most of the samiti leaders come from the saffron party.
Mr Bidhuri said the community had rejected the peace accord signed by Mr Bainsla with chief minister Ashok Gehlot.
“Ours will be a peaceful agitation. If the government fails to address our cause, it may go in any direction,” Mr Bidhuri warned. The same group had organised a Mahapanchayat at Matrakundia under Chittorgarh district only last month, but got little support. Gujjar Yuva Mahasabha president Vikram Gujjar said only few outsiders were trying to make their own political base in Rajasthan.
“Why are they not serving Gujjars in their own states like Haryana and Uttar Pardesh?” he asks. He said the state government had given what it could give and the Gujjars endorsed the peace pact.
The Gujjar agitation brought leaders from the neighbouring states to try their luck in Lok Sabha elections. One of them, Rajendra Bidhuri got elected from Begu seat under Chittorgarh district to the Assembly.
Another Gujjar leader from Harayana, S.S. Jonpuria, first tried to get a Congress ticket for Lok Sabha.
Rebel faction of Gujjars warns of fresh movement in Rajasthan
JAIPUR: A major rebel faction of Gujjars in Rajasthan today warned of fresh agitation from June 16 if the state government fails to meet their demand of five per cent reservation.
The faction led by Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, Chief Patron of All India Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti, rejected the one per cent additional quota extended by the state government to the community recently.
"Our community members have already rejected one per cent additional quota extended to Gujjars following agitation by (community leader) Kirori Singh Bainsla and now we will launch fresh movement to get our rights," Bidhuri told reporters here.
"The movement will be peaceful and not like that of Bainsla where railway tracks were uprooted. In initial stage, we will hold demonstration at all district headquarters and memorandum will be submitted to the state government through respective district collectors.
"The agitation will be intensified by staging demonstration at state assembly during the Monsoon session and submitting memorandum to the Prime Minister and AICC President Sonia Gandhi," Bidhuri said.
He said five per cent reservation in government jobs, withdrawal of cases registered against the community members during the agitation led by Bainsla and pension to those injured in the protest are among the demands.
Strongly condemning the agreement arrived between the state government and Bainsla on granting one per cent additional quota, Bidhuri alleged that Bainsla settled for the accord only for his "personal gains".
The community had called off its month-long stir on May 5 after the government agreed to accord one per cent more quota to it in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting 21 per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more quota till the High Court completes formalities on their demand, and remaining four per cent reservation would be accorded after the court's verdict under the Special Backward Class category.
The faction led by Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, Chief Patron of All India Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti, rejected the one per cent additional quota extended by the state government to the community recently.
"Our community members have already rejected one per cent additional quota extended to Gujjars following agitation by (community leader) Kirori Singh Bainsla and now we will launch fresh movement to get our rights," Bidhuri told reporters here.
"The movement will be peaceful and not like that of Bainsla where railway tracks were uprooted. In initial stage, we will hold demonstration at all district headquarters and memorandum will be submitted to the state government through respective district collectors.
"The agitation will be intensified by staging demonstration at state assembly during the Monsoon session and submitting memorandum to the Prime Minister and AICC President Sonia Gandhi," Bidhuri said.
He said five per cent reservation in government jobs, withdrawal of cases registered against the community members during the agitation led by Bainsla and pension to those injured in the protest are among the demands.
Strongly condemning the agreement arrived between the state government and Bainsla on granting one per cent additional quota, Bidhuri alleged that Bainsla settled for the accord only for his "personal gains".
The community had called off its month-long stir on May 5 after the government agreed to accord one per cent more quota to it in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting 21 per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more quota till the High Court completes formalities on their demand, and remaining four per cent reservation would be accorded after the court's verdict under the Special Backward Class category.
Gujjars reported missing after heavy rains, snowfall
At least 25 Gujjars including women and children have been reported missing following incessant rains and snowfall in the Himalayan region during the past few days.
Reports said that the worst hit was the Wadwan area in the Jammu region, where about 25 people are reportedly missing along with their livestock.
“We have reports about these families and we are trying to establish contact with their relatives in Patnitop,” divisional commissioner of Jammu Pawan Kotwal told TheHindu, adding that they were trapped due to heavy snowfall in Sukhnai village in Jabal Nallah, which is the last area in the north.
While it is still being ascertained how many people are trapped, Mr. Kotwal confirmed that nearly 4,500 sheep, goats and horses have perished.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, however, said thousands of Gujjars and Bakerwals families still require emergency rescues, relief and rehabilitation operations as they are at high risk from being trapped or stranded due to snow avalanches, landslides and thunder storms in places like Pir Panjal, Shivalik, Trikuta and the Zojila hills in the ranges of the northwestern Himalayas.
Foundation Secretary Javaid Rahi said the Gujjars and Bakerwals got trapped since they move to the upper reaches as a part of their seasonal tribal migration in April.
Reports said that the worst hit was the Wadwan area in the Jammu region, where about 25 people are reportedly missing along with their livestock.
“We have reports about these families and we are trying to establish contact with their relatives in Patnitop,” divisional commissioner of Jammu Pawan Kotwal told TheHindu, adding that they were trapped due to heavy snowfall in Sukhnai village in Jabal Nallah, which is the last area in the north.
While it is still being ascertained how many people are trapped, Mr. Kotwal confirmed that nearly 4,500 sheep, goats and horses have perished.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, however, said thousands of Gujjars and Bakerwals families still require emergency rescues, relief and rehabilitation operations as they are at high risk from being trapped or stranded due to snow avalanches, landslides and thunder storms in places like Pir Panjal, Shivalik, Trikuta and the Zojila hills in the ranges of the northwestern Himalayas.
Foundation Secretary Javaid Rahi said the Gujjars and Bakerwals got trapped since they move to the upper reaches as a part of their seasonal tribal migration in April.
Gujjars reported missing after heavy rains, snowfall
At least 25 Gujjars including women and children have been reported missing following incessant rains and snowfall in the Himalayan region during the past few days.
Reports said that the worst hit was the Wadwan area in the Jammu region, where about 25 people are reportedly missing along with their livestock.
“We have reports about these families and we are trying to establish contact with their relatives in Patnitop,” divisional commissioner of Jammu Pawan Kotwal told TheHindu, adding that they were trapped due to heavy snowfall in Sukhnai village in Jabal Nallah, which is the last area in the north.
While it is still being ascertained how many people are trapped, Mr. Kotwal confirmed that nearly 4,500 sheep, goats and horses have perished.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, however, said thousands of Gujjars and Bakerwals families still require emergency rescues, relief and rehabilitation operations as they are at high risk from being trapped or stranded due to snow avalanches, landslides and thunder storms in places like Pir Panjal, Shivalik, Trikuta and the Zojila hills in the ranges of the northwestern Himalayas.
Foundation Secretary Javaid Rahi said the Gujjars and Bakerwals got trapped since they move to the upper reaches as a part of their seasonal tribal migration in April.
Reports said that the worst hit was the Wadwan area in the Jammu region, where about 25 people are reportedly missing along with their livestock.
“We have reports about these families and we are trying to establish contact with their relatives in Patnitop,” divisional commissioner of Jammu Pawan Kotwal told TheHindu, adding that they were trapped due to heavy snowfall in Sukhnai village in Jabal Nallah, which is the last area in the north.
While it is still being ascertained how many people are trapped, Mr. Kotwal confirmed that nearly 4,500 sheep, goats and horses have perished.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, however, said thousands of Gujjars and Bakerwals families still require emergency rescues, relief and rehabilitation operations as they are at high risk from being trapped or stranded due to snow avalanches, landslides and thunder storms in places like Pir Panjal, Shivalik, Trikuta and the Zojila hills in the ranges of the northwestern Himalayas.
Foundation Secretary Javaid Rahi said the Gujjars and Bakerwals got trapped since they move to the upper reaches as a part of their seasonal tribal migration in April.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Centre asked to rescue stranded nomads from J&K mountain ranges
A frontal organisation of Gujjars on Sunday appealed to the Centre and the State government to rescue nomads stranded at mountain ranges in Jammu and Kashmir due to unseasonal rain and snowfall in the last few days.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF) said over three lakh to five lakh nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals are trapped at mountain ranges while they were in search for pastures for livestock during their seasonal migration since April.
“Unseasonal snowfall and heavy rain have put at high risk the lives of over three lakh to five lakh nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals along with livestock as they got trapped at different points in the mountain ranges,” TRCF secretary Javaid Rahi said in a statement here.
“We appeal to Union government and State authorities for an immediate rescue operation to save human lives,” he said.
People of these communities, who moved to upper reaches as part of their seasonal migration in April got trapped at upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Doda, Anantnag, Kulgam, Zojiala pass Jamia Gali, Pir Ki Marg, Chhapran, Upper Banihal, Wadwan, Trichhal, Mughal Road, Gurez— Macheil sector and other areas due to heavy snowfall and rainstorm over the past few days.
The main tribal migration routes of Jamiya Gali, Gora Batta, Nanansar and Ropadi Dharhal Pass were badly damaged due to heavy snowfall, he said.
The Gujjars, in the Schedule Tribe category, constitute one forth of total 11 million population of the State.
The Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation (TRCF) said over three lakh to five lakh nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals are trapped at mountain ranges while they were in search for pastures for livestock during their seasonal migration since April.
“Unseasonal snowfall and heavy rain have put at high risk the lives of over three lakh to five lakh nomadic Gujjars and Bakerwals along with livestock as they got trapped at different points in the mountain ranges,” TRCF secretary Javaid Rahi said in a statement here.
“We appeal to Union government and State authorities for an immediate rescue operation to save human lives,” he said.
People of these communities, who moved to upper reaches as part of their seasonal migration in April got trapped at upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Doda, Anantnag, Kulgam, Zojiala pass Jamia Gali, Pir Ki Marg, Chhapran, Upper Banihal, Wadwan, Trichhal, Mughal Road, Gurez— Macheil sector and other areas due to heavy snowfall and rainstorm over the past few days.
The main tribal migration routes of Jamiya Gali, Gora Batta, Nanansar and Ropadi Dharhal Pass were badly damaged due to heavy snowfall, he said.
The Gujjars, in the Schedule Tribe category, constitute one forth of total 11 million population of the State.
Sonia ‘revives’ ties with Gujjars
All India Congress Committee (AICC) president Sonia Gandhi finally kept her date with the Gujjars by inaugurating “Gujjar Centre for Culture and Heritage” here on Saturday and also used the opportunity to revive age old links of party with the nomadic community with the promise that Centre would “do everything for its development.”
She was addressing the gathering at Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT) following inauguration of the centre. This was her first ever visit to the winter capital after the UPA came to power for its second term.
Chief minister Omar Abdullah, Union minister for health Ghulam Nabi Azad, Union minister for new and renewable energy Dr Farooq Abdullah, JKPCC chief Prof Saifuddin Soz, minister of state at the Prime Minister’s Office and J&K affairs in-charge Prithviraj Chavan, deputy chief minister Tara Chand and GDCT chairman Masud Chowdhary shared the presidium with the AICC president.
To strike a right chord with the community, which formed a significant vote bank of the party in the state, the Congress president recalled, “Congress shares a very special and deep relationship with Gujjars and it dates back to the times of Pandit Nehru. Nehruji, Indiraji and Rajivji — they all had great concern for the community which formed important part of our society. They felt duty-bound to redress their grievances. The party still cares for this nomadic population a great deal.”
Profusely appreciating Gujjars for, what she chose to describe as, “their valour, unquestionable patriotism, enduring spirits despite all odds and innumerable sacrifices for the country during wars with the neighbouring country and militancy,” Sonia stated that the UPA government was making all out efforts for development and progress of J&K.
National Conference president and Union minister for new and renewable energy Dr Farooq Abdullah and his chief minister son did a perfect balancing act in the function.
While Farooq also brought an element of suspense in his inimitable manner in his address, the chief minister also did some plain speaking while responding to some of the points made by Masud Chowdhary.
Mr Farooq maintained, “Many people did not want the AICC president to come here as a part of their nasty politics. But I’m happy she still came and this has boosted the morale of the community spread all across India and Pakistan
Sonia assures central schemes for uplift of Gujjars
Jammu, May 29 (PTI) Lauding the role of Gujjars in defending the country's interests during wars and militancy, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi today assured them that the Centre would initiate schemes for uplift of the nomadic community.
"The Gujjars have bravely fought during 1965 and 1971 wars and today also they are fighting militancy and subversion in Jammu and Kashmir," Gandhi said while addressing a gathering after inaugurating Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage at Channi Himat here this afternoon.
She said that the relationship between Congress and Gujjars dates back to the days of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of the country, who had great concern for the community
"The Gujjars have bravely fought during 1965 and 1971 wars and today also they are fighting militancy and subversion in Jammu and Kashmir," Gandhi said while addressing a gathering after inaugurating Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage at Channi Himat here this afternoon.
She said that the relationship between Congress and Gujjars dates back to the days of Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of the country, who had great concern for the community
With Congress at the helm in Delhi, J&K will advance: Sonia
SRINAGAR: Congress president and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Saturday said Jammu and Kashmir would become a progressive State, while her party was leading the government at the Centre.
After inaugurating a cultural centre for Gujjars in Jammu, Ms. Gandhi told a gathering that the UPA government was committed to helping Jammu and Kashmir. “The State should adopt the latest scientific methods and use computers to advance in the path of education and progress,” she said.
She hailed the contribution of Gujjars in fighting militancy in the border State and in securing the frontiers of the country, and promised the UPA government's help for the community's economic, political and educational empowerment.
“The sacrifice of this [Gujjar] community for the independence of our country has no match. In all wars which India fought with its neighbours, the Gujjars were in the forefront and fought bravely. Be it protecting our borders from enemy aggression or fighting militancy, these men have [made] a huge contribution.”
It was her first visit to Jammu after the UPA government began its second tenure a year ago.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government would re-open all the mobile schools, remaining closed for the past 20 years, to ensure education for all Gujjars. He asked the community to arm its children with education and knowledge, so that they could fight their economic, social and political backwardness.
Union Ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad and PCC chief Saifuddin Soz spoke.
Before leaving for Delhi, Ms. Gandhi met Mr. Omar Abdullah and discussed the functioning of the coalition government. Sources said bickerings between the two factions of the State Congress — headed by Prof. Soz and Mr. Azad — were pulling the Congress Ministers in different directions, thus adversely affecting their functioning.
Sources said that Mr. Abdullah gave her an account of the functioning of the 16-month-old coalition government. He stressed that things were smooth, but certain wrinkles needed to be ironed out.
Ms. Gandhi held a meeting with senior party functionaries over lunch. She cancelled her Srinagar visit owing to infighting in the party.
Sonia to open Gujjar Center today
Shabir Dar
Jammu, May 28: When the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi would inaugurate the state-of-art Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH) here Saturday, movement for improving the condition of tribal community of the State will be born.
The centre, built by Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT), a voluntary non-political organisation, has mandated itself to work for the upliftment of Gujjars and other underprivileged classes of the State.
The purpose of establishing GCCH was to deal effectively with backwardness and socio-economic deprivation of the Gujjar community.
The centre is mandated to formulate programmes and policies and creating a wave of awareness among the members of the community to become active agents of their own socio-economic reformation.
“By the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University in 1875 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the condition of Muslims improved considerably. It was a movement toward educational, economic and political awakening of Muslims. Likewise, the establishment of Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage is a movement to improve socio, economic and political conditions of Gujjars,” Masud Ahmad Chaudhary, Chairman of GDCT told Rising Kashmir.
Chaudhary said the Gurjar Centre was state-of-art structure, which houses facilities like Researchers Retrieve, Art, Culture and Language centre, workshop, auditorium, conference hall, publishing hall, gallery, museum and Begum Akbar Jehan Foundation and Research Library.
“The traditional dress, culture and even language of Gujjars is on decline. Even the social condition of Gujiars is not good. So I am sure that the centre will have a very positive impact on the society. It is empowerment of Jammu and Kashmir Muslims,” Chaudhary, who is also the vice-chairman of Baba Ghulam Shah Badsha University, Rajouri said.
Not only members of Gujjar community, even the head of the state have expressed hope that the centre would help preserve culture and heritage of the tribal community.
“I wish and pray that the complex becomes a centre of activities aimed at preservation and showcasing of rich culture of the Gujjar community,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah writes in his message to the tribal community. The CM’s message is published in the broacher to be released by Sonia Gandhi on Saturday.
It took almost two decades for the GDCT to complete the work on Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH), the work for which started in 1991.
Two former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad had provided enough financial help from the State resources to the centre in its present form.
Besides, GDCT has received financial help from the Government of India and other Gujjar bodies of India.
“By establishing GCCH we have added beauty to Jammu city and also registered our identity,” Chaudhary said.
The Gujjar members say their community, which lives in extreme poverty, has been exploited by successive regimes in Jammu and Kashmir.
To substantiate their argument, the Gujjar community members quote the first prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru as saying in 1940: “Gujjars have continually been exploited and have lived in extreme poverty.”
“I don’t think there is much improvement in the situation of Gujjars since then,” said Chaudhary.
Now the coming of Sonia Gandhi to Jammu for inaugurating the GCCH is being viewed as a new beginning of relationship between the Gandhi family and the Gujjar and Bakerwal community of the State.
The Gujjar community members are optimistic that after a long gap of over 25 years, a member of the Gandhi family will revive the relationship between the two which will have a forereaching impact on the movement of Gujjars, who are struggling hard since 1947 for their recognition as a vibrant and powerful ethno-political tribal identity.
“Former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Ghandi were great advocates and sympathisers of Gujjars of J&K but after the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the links were snapped. Now the visit of Sonia Gandhi will see a new saga of revival of age old relations between a community that always sacrificed a lot for upholding the unity and integrity of the State,” said a Gujjar community leader
Jammu, May 28: When the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi would inaugurate the state-of-art Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH) here Saturday, movement for improving the condition of tribal community of the State will be born.
The centre, built by Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT), a voluntary non-political organisation, has mandated itself to work for the upliftment of Gujjars and other underprivileged classes of the State.
The purpose of establishing GCCH was to deal effectively with backwardness and socio-economic deprivation of the Gujjar community.
The centre is mandated to formulate programmes and policies and creating a wave of awareness among the members of the community to become active agents of their own socio-economic reformation.
“By the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University in 1875 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the condition of Muslims improved considerably. It was a movement toward educational, economic and political awakening of Muslims. Likewise, the establishment of Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage is a movement to improve socio, economic and political conditions of Gujjars,” Masud Ahmad Chaudhary, Chairman of GDCT told Rising Kashmir.
Chaudhary said the Gurjar Centre was state-of-art structure, which houses facilities like Researchers Retrieve, Art, Culture and Language centre, workshop, auditorium, conference hall, publishing hall, gallery, museum and Begum Akbar Jehan Foundation and Research Library.
“The traditional dress, culture and even language of Gujjars is on decline. Even the social condition of Gujiars is not good. So I am sure that the centre will have a very positive impact on the society. It is empowerment of Jammu and Kashmir Muslims,” Chaudhary, who is also the vice-chairman of Baba Ghulam Shah Badsha University, Rajouri said.
Not only members of Gujjar community, even the head of the state have expressed hope that the centre would help preserve culture and heritage of the tribal community.
“I wish and pray that the complex becomes a centre of activities aimed at preservation and showcasing of rich culture of the Gujjar community,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah writes in his message to the tribal community. The CM’s message is published in the broacher to be released by Sonia Gandhi on Saturday.
It took almost two decades for the GDCT to complete the work on Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH), the work for which started in 1991.
Two former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad had provided enough financial help from the State resources to the centre in its present form.
Besides, GDCT has received financial help from the Government of India and other Gujjar bodies of India.
“By establishing GCCH we have added beauty to Jammu city and also registered our identity,” Chaudhary said.
The Gujjar members say their community, which lives in extreme poverty, has been exploited by successive regimes in Jammu and Kashmir.
To substantiate their argument, the Gujjar community members quote the first prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru as saying in 1940: “Gujjars have continually been exploited and have lived in extreme poverty.”
“I don’t think there is much improvement in the situation of Gujjars since then,” said Chaudhary.
Now the coming of Sonia Gandhi to Jammu for inaugurating the GCCH is being viewed as a new beginning of relationship between the Gandhi family and the Gujjar and Bakerwal community of the State.
The Gujjar community members are optimistic that after a long gap of over 25 years, a member of the Gandhi family will revive the relationship between the two which will have a forereaching impact on the movement of Gujjars, who are struggling hard since 1947 for their recognition as a vibrant and powerful ethno-political tribal identity.
“Former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Ghandi were great advocates and sympathisers of Gujjars of J&K but after the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the links were snapped. Now the visit of Sonia Gandhi will see a new saga of revival of age old relations between a community that always sacrificed a lot for upholding the unity and integrity of the State,” said a Gujjar community leader
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sonia to open Gujjar Center today
Shabir Dar
Jammu, May 28: When the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi would inaugurate the state-of-art Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH) here Saturday, movement for improving the condition of tribal community of the State will be born.
The centre, built by Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT), a voluntary non-political organisation, has mandated itself to work for the upliftment of Gujjars and other underprivileged classes of the State.
The purpose of establishing GCCH was to deal effectively with backwardness and socio-economic deprivation of the Gujjar community.
The centre is mandated to formulate programmes and policies and creating a wave of awareness among the members of the community to become active agents of their own socio-economic reformation.
“By the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University in 1875 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the condition of Muslims improved considerably. It was a movement toward educational, economic and political awakening of Muslims. Likewise, the establishment of Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage is a movement to improve socio, economic and political conditions of Gujjars,” Masud Ahmad Chaudhary, Chairman of GDCT told Rising Kashmir.
Chaudhary said the Gurjar Centre was state-of-art structure, which houses facilities like Researchers Retrieve, Art, Culture and Language centre, workshop, auditorium, conference hall, publishing hall, gallery, museum and Begum Akbar Jehan Foundation and Research Library.
“The traditional dress, culture and even language of Gujjars is on decline. Even the social condition of Gujiars is not good. So I am sure that the centre will have a very positive impact on the society. It is empowerment of Jammu and Kashmir Muslims,” Chaudhary, who is also the vice-chairman of Baba Ghulam Shah Badsha University, Rajouri said.
Not only members of Gujjar community, even the head of the state have expressed hope that the centre would help preserve culture and heritage of the tribal community.
“I wish and pray that the complex becomes a centre of activities aimed at preservation and showcasing of rich culture of the Gujjar community,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah writes in his message to the tribal community. The CM’s message is published in the broacher to be released by Sonia Gandhi on Saturday.
It took almost two decades for the GDCT to complete the work on Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH), the work for which started in 1991.
Two former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad had provided enough financial help from the State resources to the centre in its present form.
Besides, GDCT has received financial help from the Government of India and other Gujjar bodies of India.
“By establishing GCCH we have added beauty to Jammu city and also registered our identity,” Chaudhary said.
The Gujjar members say their community, which lives in extreme poverty, has been exploited by successive regimes in Jammu and Kashmir.
To substantiate their argument, the Gujjar community members quote the first prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru as saying in 1940: “Gujjars have continually been exploited and have lived in extreme poverty.”
“I don’t think there is much improvement in the situation of Gujjars since then,” said Chaudhary.
Now the coming of Sonia Gandhi to Jammu for inaugurating the GCCH is being viewed as a new beginning of relationship between the Gandhi family and the Gujjar and Bakerwal community of the State.
The Gujjar community members are optimistic that after a long gap of over 25 years, a member of the Gandhi family will revive the relationship between the two which will have a forereaching impact on the movement of Gujjars, who are struggling hard since 1947 for their recognition as a vibrant and powerful ethno-political tribal identity.
“Former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Ghandi were great advocates and sympathisers of Gujjars of J&K but after the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the links were snapped. Now the visit of Sonia Gandhi will see a new saga of revival of age old relations between a community that always sacrificed a lot for upholding the unity and integrity of the State,” said a Gujjar community leader.
Jammu, May 28: When the UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi would inaugurate the state-of-art Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH) here Saturday, movement for improving the condition of tribal community of the State will be born.
The centre, built by Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust (GDCT), a voluntary non-political organisation, has mandated itself to work for the upliftment of Gujjars and other underprivileged classes of the State.
The purpose of establishing GCCH was to deal effectively with backwardness and socio-economic deprivation of the Gujjar community.
The centre is mandated to formulate programmes and policies and creating a wave of awareness among the members of the community to become active agents of their own socio-economic reformation.
“By the establishment of Aligarh Muslim University in 1875 by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the condition of Muslims improved considerably. It was a movement toward educational, economic and political awakening of Muslims. Likewise, the establishment of Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage is a movement to improve socio, economic and political conditions of Gujjars,” Masud Ahmad Chaudhary, Chairman of GDCT told Rising Kashmir.
Chaudhary said the Gurjar Centre was state-of-art structure, which houses facilities like Researchers Retrieve, Art, Culture and Language centre, workshop, auditorium, conference hall, publishing hall, gallery, museum and Begum Akbar Jehan Foundation and Research Library.
“The traditional dress, culture and even language of Gujjars is on decline. Even the social condition of Gujiars is not good. So I am sure that the centre will have a very positive impact on the society. It is empowerment of Jammu and Kashmir Muslims,” Chaudhary, who is also the vice-chairman of Baba Ghulam Shah Badsha University, Rajouri said.
Not only members of Gujjar community, even the head of the state have expressed hope that the centre would help preserve culture and heritage of the tribal community.
“I wish and pray that the complex becomes a centre of activities aimed at preservation and showcasing of rich culture of the Gujjar community,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah writes in his message to the tribal community. The CM’s message is published in the broacher to be released by Sonia Gandhi on Saturday.
It took almost two decades for the GDCT to complete the work on Gurjar Centre for Culture and Heritage (GCCH), the work for which started in 1991.
Two former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad had provided enough financial help from the State resources to the centre in its present form.
Besides, GDCT has received financial help from the Government of India and other Gujjar bodies of India.
“By establishing GCCH we have added beauty to Jammu city and also registered our identity,” Chaudhary said.
The Gujjar members say their community, which lives in extreme poverty, has been exploited by successive regimes in Jammu and Kashmir.
To substantiate their argument, the Gujjar community members quote the first prime minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru as saying in 1940: “Gujjars have continually been exploited and have lived in extreme poverty.”
“I don’t think there is much improvement in the situation of Gujjars since then,” said Chaudhary.
Now the coming of Sonia Gandhi to Jammu for inaugurating the GCCH is being viewed as a new beginning of relationship between the Gandhi family and the Gujjar and Bakerwal community of the State.
The Gujjar community members are optimistic that after a long gap of over 25 years, a member of the Gandhi family will revive the relationship between the two which will have a forereaching impact on the movement of Gujjars, who are struggling hard since 1947 for their recognition as a vibrant and powerful ethno-political tribal identity.
“Former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Ghandi were great advocates and sympathisers of Gujjars of J&K but after the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the links were snapped. Now the visit of Sonia Gandhi will see a new saga of revival of age old relations between a community that always sacrificed a lot for upholding the unity and integrity of the State,” said a Gujjar community leader.
Sonia Gandhi to visit Jammu-Kashmir May 29
Congress President Sonia Gandhi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on May 29, a party spokesperson said in Jammu on Sunday.
She will visit the capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar, the spokesperson said.
Gandhi will inaugurate a tribal cultural centre in Jammu and address a function organised by the Gujjar community. Her family has been closely associated with the Gujjar community.
The late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi's mother-in-law, used to visit the Gujjar community once a year.
After spending time in Jammu in the morning, she will visit Srinagar to lay the foundation stone of a colony for Dal lake dwellers.
About 11,000 Dal lake dwellers are being rehabilitated to the outskirts of Srinagar.
Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, who also holds portfolios of housing and urban development, said that Dal has been cleaned up to a large extent and efforts are underway to restore it to its original glory.
The Dal dwellers, he said, will be given a good place to live and the government will construct a residential colony for them.
"That would further help us in cleaning the waters of Dal, which is part of our heritage," Tara Chand said.
She will visit the capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar, the spokesperson said.
Gandhi will inaugurate a tribal cultural centre in Jammu and address a function organised by the Gujjar community. Her family has been closely associated with the Gujjar community.
The late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi's mother-in-law, used to visit the Gujjar community once a year.
After spending time in Jammu in the morning, she will visit Srinagar to lay the foundation stone of a colony for Dal lake dwellers.
About 11,000 Dal lake dwellers are being rehabilitated to the outskirts of Srinagar.
Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand, who also holds portfolios of housing and urban development, said that Dal has been cleaned up to a large extent and efforts are underway to restore it to its original glory.
The Dal dwellers, he said, will be given a good place to live and the government will construct a residential colony for them.
"That would further help us in cleaning the waters of Dal, which is part of our heritage," Tara Chand said.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Gujjars accuse MP of trying to grab their land
STAFF WRITER 21:36 HRS IST
Kathua (J&K), May 17 (PTI) Gujjars today held a demonstration here in protest against the alleged threat by an MP to grab their land located near his farm house in Rajbagh area of the district.
About fifty members of the Gujjar tribe assembled at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Park here this aftertnoon and raised slogans against Lal Singh.
They alleged that Singh had been forcing them to sell eight acres of their land near his farm house in Rajbagh.
They also met the Additional Deputy Commissioner who assured them that their complaint would be looked into.
Kathua (J&K), May 17 (PTI) Gujjars today held a demonstration here in protest against the alleged threat by an MP to grab their land located near his farm house in Rajbagh area of the district.
About fifty members of the Gujjar tribe assembled at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Park here this aftertnoon and raised slogans against Lal Singh.
They alleged that Singh had been forcing them to sell eight acres of their land near his farm house in Rajbagh.
They also met the Additional Deputy Commissioner who assured them that their complaint would be looked into.
Gujjars-Bakerwals of J & K demand special census
STAFF WRITER 16:47 HRS IST
Srinagar, May 16 (PTI) Apprehensive of being left out of the ongoing census operations, Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir today demanded a special census for the nomadic community currently under seasonal migration to northwestern Himalayas.
In a letter to the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh written on behalf of the community by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, said, "A special census of the nomadic and shelterless Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir is all the more necessary as the community is presently under seasonal migration along with their livestock to upper reaches of northwestern Himalayas."
Giving details of the letter, Javaid Rahi, Secretary of the Foundation said, "We demanded a special census of the nomadic community with a population of around 6 to 8 Lakh who are presently migrating through seven major routs towards the upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Shavalik and Trikuta Hills of the Himalayas.
Srinagar, May 16 (PTI) Apprehensive of being left out of the ongoing census operations, Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir today demanded a special census for the nomadic community currently under seasonal migration to northwestern Himalayas.
In a letter to the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh written on behalf of the community by Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, said, "A special census of the nomadic and shelterless Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir is all the more necessary as the community is presently under seasonal migration along with their livestock to upper reaches of northwestern Himalayas."
Giving details of the letter, Javaid Rahi, Secretary of the Foundation said, "We demanded a special census of the nomadic community with a population of around 6 to 8 Lakh who are presently migrating through seven major routs towards the upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Shavalik and Trikuta Hills of the Himalayas.
TRCF demands for special census of Gujjars and Bakerwals of J&K
Srinagar, May 16 (Scoop News) - Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation(TRCF) –a frontal body of Gujjars of state stressed vigorously upon centre and state to jointly launch an exclusive programme to conduct a special census of lakhs of nomadic and shelter-less Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir who are presently under seasonal migration along-with their livestock to upper reaches of Northwestern Himalaya.
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh sent through Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation(TRCF) the community members demanded a correct enumeration of their tribe under “Shelter less category” in the course house listing commenced from yesterday.
Giving details about the letter, Dr Javaid Rahi, Secretary of the Foundation said that we demanded a special census of around 6 to 8 Lakh nomadic and shelter less Gujjars and Bakerwals who are presently under migration through seven major routs towards upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Shavalik and Trikuta Hills of Himalaya. He said Registrar General of India (RGI ) should hold exclusive mapping to list the movement of nomads in Himalayan region of J&K and provide a new column in registration forms of census by introducing "Nomadic Category" or “Shelter less category” which will help the enumerators to accommodate a big chunk of tribal population during the process, who are otherwise feared to be left out of the census 2011.
The letter reads that Registrar General of India (RGI) should make it possible for nomadic communities of Jammu and Kashmir to participate in this census going to held after the gap of ten year.
The letter further reads, in 2000, the census report left us un enumerated , and Lakhs nomadic Gujjars who were on upper reaches at that point of time, in connection with annual migration ,had not been enumerated and reflected in the census report 2001 but this year we request Prime Ministers office to intervene and direct RGI to re-schedule the dates of census in Jammu and Kashmir or to hold a special servey of nomads. The letter further said as the houselisting and housing Census and canvassing of household schedule of National Population Register (NPR) is under way and would be completed in June 2010 and during this period a big chunk of Gujjars will be in upper reaches so a spcieal and exclusive programme of holding census should be formulated at the earliest.
Dr. Rahi asked community member who are settled or belonging to agriculture class to co-operate with census officials and get themselves enumerated as ST community with Gojri as their mother tongue.
As per official notification issued by Registrar General of India (RGI) the first phase of Census 2011 would formally commence from 15 May to 30 June 2010 in accessible areas and from 16 July to 30 August 2010 in other areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The Census department is all set for census 2011 which is aimed at providing latest population figures and comprehensive picture of social and living conditions of the people of the State.
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh sent through Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation(TRCF) the community members demanded a correct enumeration of their tribe under “Shelter less category” in the course house listing commenced from yesterday.
Giving details about the letter, Dr Javaid Rahi, Secretary of the Foundation said that we demanded a special census of around 6 to 8 Lakh nomadic and shelter less Gujjars and Bakerwals who are presently under migration through seven major routs towards upper reaches of Pir Panchal, Shavalik and Trikuta Hills of Himalaya. He said Registrar General of India (RGI ) should hold exclusive mapping to list the movement of nomads in Himalayan region of J&K and provide a new column in registration forms of census by introducing "Nomadic Category" or “Shelter less category” which will help the enumerators to accommodate a big chunk of tribal population during the process, who are otherwise feared to be left out of the census 2011.
The letter reads that Registrar General of India (RGI) should make it possible for nomadic communities of Jammu and Kashmir to participate in this census going to held after the gap of ten year.
The letter further reads, in 2000, the census report left us un enumerated , and Lakhs nomadic Gujjars who were on upper reaches at that point of time, in connection with annual migration ,had not been enumerated and reflected in the census report 2001 but this year we request Prime Ministers office to intervene and direct RGI to re-schedule the dates of census in Jammu and Kashmir or to hold a special servey of nomads. The letter further said as the houselisting and housing Census and canvassing of household schedule of National Population Register (NPR) is under way and would be completed in June 2010 and during this period a big chunk of Gujjars will be in upper reaches so a spcieal and exclusive programme of holding census should be formulated at the earliest.
Dr. Rahi asked community member who are settled or belonging to agriculture class to co-operate with census officials and get themselves enumerated as ST community with Gojri as their mother tongue.
As per official notification issued by Registrar General of India (RGI) the first phase of Census 2011 would formally commence from 15 May to 30 June 2010 in accessible areas and from 16 July to 30 August 2010 in other areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The Census department is all set for census 2011 which is aimed at providing latest population figures and comprehensive picture of social and living conditions of the people of the State.
Gujjar-Pahari Rift: Rahul Not Visiting J&K
Srinagar, May 13: AICC General Secretary Rahul Gandhi is not visiting Jammu and Kashmir on May 17, Pradesh Congress Committee president Prof Saifuddin Soz said.
Reacting to reports that Mr Gandhi will attend the Pahari conference at Rajouri in Jammu region, Prof Soz said no such confirmation has been received so far.
Without naming anyone, he said that it was wrong on the part of some organisations in Jammu to claim that Mr Gandhi was going to visit Rajouri to address Pahari conference.
Prof Soz said that merely issuing a letter of invitation to Mr Gandhi does not mean that he has accepted it.
Mr Gandhi has not yet fixed any date for his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
However, he said, he will attend the conference on May 27.
Meanwhile, the Gujjars in the state have urged Mr Gandhi to stay away from the Pahari conference.
They alleged that this event will have a serious implication on tribal, ethnic and linguishtic make up of the state.
In a letter, which was released to press here, signed by community dignitaries sent through Jammu and Kashmir Gujjar Bakerwal Joint Forum, a frontal tribal organisation , the community suggested Mr Gandhi to stay away from the extremely contentious conference.
They alleged that the conference would press the government to declare Pahari speaking people as Schedule Tribe which will dilute the Tribal status of nomadic communities including Gujjars.
The letter said the community will oppose any such move with full force to enter a ''linguistic group'' into ''Tribal amalgam''.
The forum also faxed the copies of the letter to Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi submitting that some people are trying to get the ''Scheduled Tribal status '' in the name of a language called western Pahari so that they may secure certain benefits which have been given to the ''Tribal and Nomadic'' people only.
The seven-point letter has listed the reasons why Pahari Speaking people do not deserve Scheduled Tribe status
Reacting to reports that Mr Gandhi will attend the Pahari conference at Rajouri in Jammu region, Prof Soz said no such confirmation has been received so far.
Without naming anyone, he said that it was wrong on the part of some organisations in Jammu to claim that Mr Gandhi was going to visit Rajouri to address Pahari conference.
Prof Soz said that merely issuing a letter of invitation to Mr Gandhi does not mean that he has accepted it.
Mr Gandhi has not yet fixed any date for his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
However, he said, he will attend the conference on May 27.
Meanwhile, the Gujjars in the state have urged Mr Gandhi to stay away from the Pahari conference.
They alleged that this event will have a serious implication on tribal, ethnic and linguishtic make up of the state.
In a letter, which was released to press here, signed by community dignitaries sent through Jammu and Kashmir Gujjar Bakerwal Joint Forum, a frontal tribal organisation , the community suggested Mr Gandhi to stay away from the extremely contentious conference.
They alleged that the conference would press the government to declare Pahari speaking people as Schedule Tribe which will dilute the Tribal status of nomadic communities including Gujjars.
The letter said the community will oppose any such move with full force to enter a ''linguistic group'' into ''Tribal amalgam''.
The forum also faxed the copies of the letter to Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi submitting that some people are trying to get the ''Scheduled Tribal status '' in the name of a language called western Pahari so that they may secure certain benefits which have been given to the ''Tribal and Nomadic'' people only.
The seven-point letter has listed the reasons why Pahari Speaking people do not deserve Scheduled Tribe status
Gujjar faction sets June 13 deadline
SIKANDRA: Leadership struggle within the Gujjar community took a turn — only time will tell whether it's for better or worse — when thousands of them poured in for yet another ‘mahapanchayat' here on Thursday.
The meet announced a fresh date — June 13 — for choking all the highways in the state if the state government did not yield by June 1 to their demand of 5% reservation in the 80,000 government jobs announced recently. Also featuring now on their charter is a request by the state to the Centre to create a ‘Gujjar regiment' in the defence.
While serving the ultimatum before a gathering of about 3,000 Gujjars, former Delhi legislator Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, however, did not let any opportunity go by to take pot-shots at Bainsla. "He had warned me that he would not let me enter Rajasthan, but here I am. And I am sure he has sent his people to create nuisance here," he alleged.
Bidhuri was referring to an unrest in a section of the crowd at the venue after which some people had to be removed. "We also want all cases on our people to be taken back, those in jail to be freed and at least Rs 10,000 pension for those injured in our agitations," he said.
However, the coup bid by this section of the leadership, who were on the fringe so far, over Kirori Singh Bainsla, who spearheaded the belligerent community's agitation to its logical end, is not without initial hiccups. Bidhuri's coronation, if at all, as the next Gujjar leader in the state was not all smooth.
The assembly in its initial stages was totally disrupted after a certain ‘committee' decided to keep people from Dausa off from addressing the crowd. "A decision has been taken by the committee that no one from Dausa will be allowed to address the crowd," the compere had barely finished the words, his microphone was snatched by local leader Umrao Singh Dhoi. "We will stage the agitation, we will face the bullets. But who is this committee to disallow us from addressing the crowd," he shouted over the mike.
That was enough to stir a hornet's nest as hundreds of people walked up to the dais and disrupted proceedings completely. The organisers then had to take back their words and allow those from Dausa to take hold of the show. Some from the Bainsla camp also took the opportunity to show their ire at having ‘dethroned' him.
What also emerged from the mahapanchayat was that while leaders like Bidhuri, former BJP ministers Prahlad Gunjal, Kalulal Gujjar, Nathu Singh Gujjar, former minister from Haryana Kartar Singh Bhadana and many other former MLAs and MPs might take the front line but it is the people from the community who have now decided to keep them upfront.
"It is for umpteen times that we have towed our leaders only to be cheated at the end. This time, there may be a committee of 10 to 12 people to represent us but we will lead ourselves," said former MLA from Nagar Gopi Chand.
The meet announced a fresh date — June 13 — for choking all the highways in the state if the state government did not yield by June 1 to their demand of 5% reservation in the 80,000 government jobs announced recently. Also featuring now on their charter is a request by the state to the Centre to create a ‘Gujjar regiment' in the defence.
While serving the ultimatum before a gathering of about 3,000 Gujjars, former Delhi legislator Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, however, did not let any opportunity go by to take pot-shots at Bainsla. "He had warned me that he would not let me enter Rajasthan, but here I am. And I am sure he has sent his people to create nuisance here," he alleged.
Bidhuri was referring to an unrest in a section of the crowd at the venue after which some people had to be removed. "We also want all cases on our people to be taken back, those in jail to be freed and at least Rs 10,000 pension for those injured in our agitations," he said.
However, the coup bid by this section of the leadership, who were on the fringe so far, over Kirori Singh Bainsla, who spearheaded the belligerent community's agitation to its logical end, is not without initial hiccups. Bidhuri's coronation, if at all, as the next Gujjar leader in the state was not all smooth.
The assembly in its initial stages was totally disrupted after a certain ‘committee' decided to keep people from Dausa off from addressing the crowd. "A decision has been taken by the committee that no one from Dausa will be allowed to address the crowd," the compere had barely finished the words, his microphone was snatched by local leader Umrao Singh Dhoi. "We will stage the agitation, we will face the bullets. But who is this committee to disallow us from addressing the crowd," he shouted over the mike.
That was enough to stir a hornet's nest as hundreds of people walked up to the dais and disrupted proceedings completely. The organisers then had to take back their words and allow those from Dausa to take hold of the show. Some from the Bainsla camp also took the opportunity to show their ire at having ‘dethroned' him.
What also emerged from the mahapanchayat was that while leaders like Bidhuri, former BJP ministers Prahlad Gunjal, Kalulal Gujjar, Nathu Singh Gujjar, former minister from Haryana Kartar Singh Bhadana and many other former MLAs and MPs might take the front line but it is the people from the community who have now decided to keep them upfront.
"It is for umpteen times that we have towed our leaders only to be cheated at the end. This time, there may be a committee of 10 to 12 people to represent us but we will lead ourselves," said former MLA from Nagar Gopi Chand.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Rahul's visit to J&K: Paharis welcome him, Gujjars unhappy
CONGRESS NATIONAL general secretary Rahul Gandhi is likely to attend a day-long conference of Pahari speaking people on May 17 in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.
The invitation has been extended by the Pahari Speaking Forum. He is also expected to visit some remote villages of border areas in Jammu region besides addressing a public rally in connection with the ongoing 125th foundation day celebrations.
However, re-acting sharply over the report, the Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir –a major Scheduled Tribe group, appealed Gandhi to avoid such controversial events which will have a serious implication on tribal, ethnic and linguistic make up of the State.
In a letter signed by community dignitaries sent through Jammu and Kashmir Gujjar Bakerwal Joint Forum, of a frontal tribal organisation , the community suggested Gandhi to stay away from the extremely contentious conference aimed at to press the government to declare Pahari speaking people as Schedule Tribe, which will dilute the Tribal status of nomadic communities including Gujjars and the community will oppose any such move with full force to enter a “linguistic group” into “Tribal amalgam”.
The forum also faxed the copies of the letter to the Congress President and UPA Chairperson ,Mrs Sonia Gandhi submitting that some people are trying to get the “Scheduled Tribal status “ on the name of a language called western Pahari so that they may secure certain benefits which have been given to the “Tribal and Nomadic” people only, and congress should avaiod in indulged in any such controversy.
The 7-point letter has listed the reasons why Pahari Speaking people not deserves for Scheduled Tribe status.
Regarding Pahari speaking people's claim to ST status, the forum argued that the term; " Pahari or for that matter, Pahari speaking people" has never been defined either by the J&K Government or the Union Government. Such class of people has neither been defined in any works of history, anthropology or census nor even mentioned in revenue records.
Paharis were neither defined as a weaker section and nor they approached before the Gajendragadkar Commission, the Sikri Commission, the Wazir Commission (1969), the Anand Commission (1976) and the Mandal Commission which covered the entire country.
All these commissions, from time to time, identified the Other Bakward Classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Areas and none of them recognized any group as Pahari or Pahari speaking people as weaker section of the society.
The memorandum said, Pahari being the affluent ruling upper class do not suffer from the social stigma.
The demand of the Pahari speaking people is merely based on the premises of language while the dialect or the language is not any criteria to declare any class as Scheduled Tribe. Each of the languages have sister dialect and by that way Pahari is invariably spoken across the state by the people of all communities and origins. Even the Pahari language has no dialect.
Paharis are neither tribal nor nomadic in character and they are not socially, economically and educationally backward, the letter said.
The letter said, Minister for Tribal Affairs in the NDA Government had out rightly rejected such a demand on the floor of the House in the Rajya Sabha in 2002. To an question of National Conference MP Mirza Abdul Rashid during the autumn session of the Rajya Sabha in 2002 the Minister for Tribal Affairs had said that such a proposal is not under the consideration of the Government of India as the "Pahari speaking people" is not any identified group eligible for inclusion into Scheduled Tribes.
It was also mentioned in the letter that Paharis are already enjoying reservation under three different categories i.e. RBA, ALC and OBC in different areas.
The letter said said Paharis are not recognised class under SRO 394 of 1981 of State Government, it was pointed out. The demand of Pahari speaking people is merely based on the premises of language while the dialect or the language is not any criteria to declare any class as ST.
The invitation has been extended by the Pahari Speaking Forum. He is also expected to visit some remote villages of border areas in Jammu region besides addressing a public rally in connection with the ongoing 125th foundation day celebrations.
However, re-acting sharply over the report, the Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir –a major Scheduled Tribe group, appealed Gandhi to avoid such controversial events which will have a serious implication on tribal, ethnic and linguistic make up of the State.
In a letter signed by community dignitaries sent through Jammu and Kashmir Gujjar Bakerwal Joint Forum, of a frontal tribal organisation , the community suggested Gandhi to stay away from the extremely contentious conference aimed at to press the government to declare Pahari speaking people as Schedule Tribe, which will dilute the Tribal status of nomadic communities including Gujjars and the community will oppose any such move with full force to enter a “linguistic group” into “Tribal amalgam”.
The forum also faxed the copies of the letter to the Congress President and UPA Chairperson ,Mrs Sonia Gandhi submitting that some people are trying to get the “Scheduled Tribal status “ on the name of a language called western Pahari so that they may secure certain benefits which have been given to the “Tribal and Nomadic” people only, and congress should avaiod in indulged in any such controversy.
The 7-point letter has listed the reasons why Pahari Speaking people not deserves for Scheduled Tribe status.
Regarding Pahari speaking people's claim to ST status, the forum argued that the term; " Pahari or for that matter, Pahari speaking people" has never been defined either by the J&K Government or the Union Government. Such class of people has neither been defined in any works of history, anthropology or census nor even mentioned in revenue records.
Paharis were neither defined as a weaker section and nor they approached before the Gajendragadkar Commission, the Sikri Commission, the Wazir Commission (1969), the Anand Commission (1976) and the Mandal Commission which covered the entire country.
All these commissions, from time to time, identified the Other Bakward Classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Areas and none of them recognized any group as Pahari or Pahari speaking people as weaker section of the society.
The memorandum said, Pahari being the affluent ruling upper class do not suffer from the social stigma.
The demand of the Pahari speaking people is merely based on the premises of language while the dialect or the language is not any criteria to declare any class as Scheduled Tribe. Each of the languages have sister dialect and by that way Pahari is invariably spoken across the state by the people of all communities and origins. Even the Pahari language has no dialect.
Paharis are neither tribal nor nomadic in character and they are not socially, economically and educationally backward, the letter said.
The letter said, Minister for Tribal Affairs in the NDA Government had out rightly rejected such a demand on the floor of the House in the Rajya Sabha in 2002. To an question of National Conference MP Mirza Abdul Rashid during the autumn session of the Rajya Sabha in 2002 the Minister for Tribal Affairs had said that such a proposal is not under the consideration of the Government of India as the "Pahari speaking people" is not any identified group eligible for inclusion into Scheduled Tribes.
It was also mentioned in the letter that Paharis are already enjoying reservation under three different categories i.e. RBA, ALC and OBC in different areas.
The letter said said Paharis are not recognised class under SRO 394 of 1981 of State Government, it was pointed out. The demand of Pahari speaking people is merely based on the premises of language while the dialect or the language is not any criteria to declare any class as ST.
Unhappy Gujjars want nothing less than 5% quota
A faction of the Gujjars on Monday said it would launch a fresh agitation against the one per cent additional quota offered to the community by the government, saying it was not ready to settle for anything less than the 5 per cent separate reservation.
All India Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti would hold a ‘Mahapanchayat’ at Sikandra town of Dausa district on May 13 to decide on the agitation, its chief patron Ramvir Singh Bidhuri told a press conference here.
Strongly condemning the agreement arrived between the state government and Gujjar leader Kirorisingh Bainsla on granting one per cent additional quota, he alleged that Bainsla settled for the accord only for his “personal gains”.
“Gehlot-Bainsla accord on one per cent quota within 50 per cent limit is unconstitutional,” Bidhuri said.
“Bainsla, who got political mileage by getting Lok Sabha ticket from BJP and important postings for his relatives now ended the Gujjar agitation for ensuring a Rajya Sabha seat for his daughter in the June 17 elections,” Bidhuri alleged.
Besides Gujjars, people of Rebari, Gardia Lohar and Banjara communities would also participate in Mahapanchayat to draw the attention of the government, he said.
“Gujjars’ sole demand would be 5 per cent separate quota for the community, release of Gujjar prisoners booked for previous agitations, pensions to bereaved families of 72 ‘martyrs’ of the community who fell to police bullets and withdrawal of cases,” Bidhuri insisted.
The community had called off its month-long stir on May 5 after the government agreed to accord one per cent more quota to it in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting four per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more quota till the High Court completes formalities on their demand for five per cent reservation under the Special Backward Class category.
The decision to call off agitation had met with stiff resistance on the same day
All India Gujjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Samiti would hold a ‘Mahapanchayat’ at Sikandra town of Dausa district on May 13 to decide on the agitation, its chief patron Ramvir Singh Bidhuri told a press conference here.
Strongly condemning the agreement arrived between the state government and Gujjar leader Kirorisingh Bainsla on granting one per cent additional quota, he alleged that Bainsla settled for the accord only for his “personal gains”.
“Gehlot-Bainsla accord on one per cent quota within 50 per cent limit is unconstitutional,” Bidhuri said.
“Bainsla, who got political mileage by getting Lok Sabha ticket from BJP and important postings for his relatives now ended the Gujjar agitation for ensuring a Rajya Sabha seat for his daughter in the June 17 elections,” Bidhuri alleged.
Besides Gujjars, people of Rebari, Gardia Lohar and Banjara communities would also participate in Mahapanchayat to draw the attention of the government, he said.
“Gujjars’ sole demand would be 5 per cent separate quota for the community, release of Gujjar prisoners booked for previous agitations, pensions to bereaved families of 72 ‘martyrs’ of the community who fell to police bullets and withdrawal of cases,” Bidhuri insisted.
The community had called off its month-long stir on May 5 after the government agreed to accord one per cent more quota to it in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting four per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more quota till the High Court completes formalities on their demand for five per cent reservation under the Special Backward Class category.
The decision to call off agitation had met with stiff resistance on the same day
Saturday, May 8, 2010
‘Happy’ Gujjars felicitate Gehlot over quota stand
JAIPUR: Upbeat over his stand on the Gujjar quota issue, chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday was felicitated by a group of Gujjars at his Civil Lines residence in Jaipur.
Gehlot postponed his Mumbai visit by a day where he was going to unveil Rajasthan House as he preferred celebrating his success with the Gujjars, who seem to be pacified after years of agitation and bloodshed. Gehlot offered a daal-baati feast to the visiting Gujjars and assured the government's commitment to ensure quota for the community. The state cabinet had on Thursday approved the 1% immediate quota for Gujjars and 4% notional quota for them.
However, all is not well as a section of Gujjars is still on the warpath and are still continuing with their stir. They claim that the quota given by the state was not acceptable and they want 5% full-fledged quota.
According to Man Singh Gujjar, "The way the Gujjar stir ended was not what we had wanted. We wanted it to end with a mahapanchayat at Sikandra. But that was not to be and Kirori Singh Bainsla did a hurried job. We do not accept his decision."
On Friday, about 200 villages called for a mahapanchayat at Sikandra and a proposal was passed wherein the mahapadav refused to acknowledge Bainsla as their leader and decided to continue with the agitation. The proposal was brought in by Gopichand Gujjar and was passed by a show of hands.
However, Man Singh Gujjar added that since the agitation was fast taking a violent turn, even those leaders who were with the Sikandra agitation are fast disassociating themselves from it.
"There is no point just holding a mahapadav in Sikandra alone. Soon the administration would come and drive them away resulting in casualties," he said.
“We were against Bainlsa decision but are for a peaceful agitation and have decided to call a national mahapanchyat at Sikandra on May 13. Till then, we wanted to lift the road blockade as it is inconveniencing commuters and business establishments in the area. However, there are some anti-social elements who are continuing with it and we, the leaders, who were with them initially have now disassociated ouselves from it," he added.
Singh said that after the mahapanchayat on May 13 they will intimate chief minister Ashok Gehlot of their decision and would wait to see how the government keep its stance for the community at the High court in the next hearing.
“After that what happens will be decided in the May 13 mahapanchayat," he said.
Gehlot postponed his Mumbai visit by a day where he was going to unveil Rajasthan House as he preferred celebrating his success with the Gujjars, who seem to be pacified after years of agitation and bloodshed. Gehlot offered a daal-baati feast to the visiting Gujjars and assured the government's commitment to ensure quota for the community. The state cabinet had on Thursday approved the 1% immediate quota for Gujjars and 4% notional quota for them.
However, all is not well as a section of Gujjars is still on the warpath and are still continuing with their stir. They claim that the quota given by the state was not acceptable and they want 5% full-fledged quota.
According to Man Singh Gujjar, "The way the Gujjar stir ended was not what we had wanted. We wanted it to end with a mahapanchayat at Sikandra. But that was not to be and Kirori Singh Bainsla did a hurried job. We do not accept his decision."
On Friday, about 200 villages called for a mahapanchayat at Sikandra and a proposal was passed wherein the mahapadav refused to acknowledge Bainsla as their leader and decided to continue with the agitation. The proposal was brought in by Gopichand Gujjar and was passed by a show of hands.
However, Man Singh Gujjar added that since the agitation was fast taking a violent turn, even those leaders who were with the Sikandra agitation are fast disassociating themselves from it.
"There is no point just holding a mahapadav in Sikandra alone. Soon the administration would come and drive them away resulting in casualties," he said.
“We were against Bainlsa decision but are for a peaceful agitation and have decided to call a national mahapanchyat at Sikandra on May 13. Till then, we wanted to lift the road blockade as it is inconveniencing commuters and business establishments in the area. However, there are some anti-social elements who are continuing with it and we, the leaders, who were with them initially have now disassociated ouselves from it," he added.
Singh said that after the mahapanchayat on May 13 they will intimate chief minister Ashok Gehlot of their decision and would wait to see how the government keep its stance for the community at the High court in the next hearing.
“After that what happens will be decided in the May 13 mahapanchayat," he said.
Rajasthan accords additional one pc quota to Gujjars
STAFF WRITER 20:33 HRS IST
Jaipur, May 6 (PTI) The Rajasthan government today approved one per cent additional quota for Gujjars and three other communities in addition to the existing reservation given to them under the OBC category.
The reservation in government jobs to the four communities -- Gujjars, Rebari, Gardia Lohar and Banjara -- is applicable with immediate effect.
Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot told reporters the state was maintaining quota at 49 per cent and the legal limit is 50 per cent.
This one per cent would be an additional for these four communities which are already privileged in 21 per cent quota under the Other Backward Class/community (OBC), Gehlot said.
He said the state cabinet also agreed in-principle to provide 5 per cent quota to Special OBC, which included four of these communities including Gujjars which demanded it in its month-long agitation.
Jaipur, May 6 (PTI) The Rajasthan government today approved one per cent additional quota for Gujjars and three other communities in addition to the existing reservation given to them under the OBC category.
The reservation in government jobs to the four communities -- Gujjars, Rebari, Gardia Lohar and Banjara -- is applicable with immediate effect.
Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot told reporters the state was maintaining quota at 49 per cent and the legal limit is 50 per cent.
This one per cent would be an additional for these four communities which are already privileged in 21 per cent quota under the Other Backward Class/community (OBC), Gehlot said.
He said the state cabinet also agreed in-principle to provide 5 per cent quota to Special OBC, which included four of these communities including Gujjars which demanded it in its month-long agitation.
Gujjar community faction flays Govt-Bainsla agreement
Jaipur, May 6 (PTI) Flaying the quota agreement arrived between the Ashok Gehlot government and Kirorisingh Bainsla, who spearhead the Gujjar agitation, a leader of the community today said the pact would not favour the community.
Addressing Gujjar community people at Sikandra in Dausa district where the protesters have been holding a 'sit in' (mahapadav), Rajendra Singh Vidhuri, national convenor of All India Gujjar Agitation Committee said hundreds of people were waiting for Bainsla's return from Jaipur, and Colonel Bainsla misled them by not going there.
Upset with the decision, hundreds of Vidhuri supporters also "gherao" Sikandra police station and indulged in damaging vehicles and mand driven carts, police said.
Rajasthan Yuva Gujjar Mahasabha's executive president Mansingh Burja criticised Bainsla's step and said the community would not accept it.
Addressing Gujjar community people at Sikandra in Dausa district where the protesters have been holding a 'sit in' (mahapadav), Rajendra Singh Vidhuri, national convenor of All India Gujjar Agitation Committee said hundreds of people were waiting for Bainsla's return from Jaipur, and Colonel Bainsla misled them by not going there.
Upset with the decision, hundreds of Vidhuri supporters also "gherao" Sikandra police station and indulged in damaging vehicles and mand driven carts, police said.
Rajasthan Yuva Gujjar Mahasabha's executive president Mansingh Burja criticised Bainsla's step and said the community would not accept it.
Gujjars call off agitation
STAFF WRITER 21:5 HRS IST
Jaipur, May 5 (PTI) The over fortnight long stir by Gujjars led by Kirori Singh Bainsla was called off today with the state government agreeing to accord one per cent more quota to the community in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
The announcement to call off the stir was made by Bainsla at Madanpur in Bayana Bharatpur district after a three-hour meeting with the Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and the ministerial committee, a close aide of the Gujjar leader said.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting four per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more of quota till the High Court formalities regarding their demand for five per cent reservation under the Special Backward Class were completed, Bainsla's close aide Roop Singh said.
Jaipur, May 5 (PTI) The over fortnight long stir by Gujjars led by Kirori Singh Bainsla was called off today with the state government agreeing to accord one per cent more quota to the community in addition to the existing four per cent given to them under the OBC category.
The announcement to call off the stir was made by Bainsla at Madanpur in Bayana Bharatpur district after a three-hour meeting with the Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and the ministerial committee, a close aide of the Gujjar leader said.
As per the agreement, since the community is already getting four per cent reservation under the OBC category, they would get one per cent more of quota till the High Court formalities regarding their demand for five per cent reservation under the Special Backward Class were completed, Bainsla's close aide Roop Singh said.
Gujjars pacified, stir called off
JAIPUR: After keeping the state on tenterhooks for several days, the agitating Gujjars on Wednesday accepted a formula proposed by the state government to meet their demand for 5% reservation in the state. The agitation was called off in the evening by Col Kirori Singh Bainsla, leader of Gujjar Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti.
The ‘magic formula’ to end the impasse emerged after a one-to-one meeting between chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Col Bainsla in the morning at the former’s residence.
“The government has conceded to our demand. They have given us in writing that the government would fight for our cause in the court and try to get us reservation within two months,” said Roop Singh, spokesperson of Samiti.
“Till then, we will continue to enjoy benefits under the OBC category in recruitments and get an additional 1% reservation under special backward classes. This 1% reservation is what is left in the state for 50% limit. Currently, the reservation in the state stands at 49%,” he said. “After the issue is settled in the court, the government will arrange us 4% reservation in a constitutional way,” Singh said.
Speaking to reporters, energy minister Jitendra Singh, who belongs to Gujjar community, said: “There will be dual benefits for Gujjars in future recruitments. Those wanting to apply as OBC can do so as they will be counted in this category. Additionally, the government has given them 1% reservation under SBC category. Those wanting to apply for government jobs under SBC will directly get the benefit of 1% reservation. The rest will continue in the court. If needed, we will fall back on the Maharashtra pattern once the issue is settled in the court.”
Himmat Singh, a close aide of Bainsla said: “In case the court rejects the government’s plea for special reservation for us then the government has assured of an alternative route of adopting the Maharashtra pattern and get us reservation outside the 50% limit.”
Bainsla, who agreed to the terms during a three-hour meeting with the chief minister, later left for the mahapadav (mass gathering) at Madanpur in Dausa district. He discussed the draft given by Gehlot with other leaders of the community and soon called off the agitation
The ‘magic formula’ to end the impasse emerged after a one-to-one meeting between chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Col Bainsla in the morning at the former’s residence.
“The government has conceded to our demand. They have given us in writing that the government would fight for our cause in the court and try to get us reservation within two months,” said Roop Singh, spokesperson of Samiti.
“Till then, we will continue to enjoy benefits under the OBC category in recruitments and get an additional 1% reservation under special backward classes. This 1% reservation is what is left in the state for 50% limit. Currently, the reservation in the state stands at 49%,” he said. “After the issue is settled in the court, the government will arrange us 4% reservation in a constitutional way,” Singh said.
Speaking to reporters, energy minister Jitendra Singh, who belongs to Gujjar community, said: “There will be dual benefits for Gujjars in future recruitments. Those wanting to apply as OBC can do so as they will be counted in this category. Additionally, the government has given them 1% reservation under SBC category. Those wanting to apply for government jobs under SBC will directly get the benefit of 1% reservation. The rest will continue in the court. If needed, we will fall back on the Maharashtra pattern once the issue is settled in the court.”
Himmat Singh, a close aide of Bainsla said: “In case the court rejects the government’s plea for special reservation for us then the government has assured of an alternative route of adopting the Maharashtra pattern and get us reservation outside the 50% limit.”
Bainsla, who agreed to the terms during a three-hour meeting with the chief minister, later left for the mahapadav (mass gathering) at Madanpur in Dausa district. He discussed the draft given by Gehlot with other leaders of the community and soon called off the agitation
Bainsla asks communitymen to prepare for today's stir
JAIPUR: Having cut short his Jaisalmer trip, chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday held meetings in his office for resolving the issue regarding the special reservation for the Gujjars. But no breakthrough was reached.
Gehlot's action followed threats by Gujjar leader Colonel Kirori Singh Bainsla of beginning a violent agitation if the promise for the 5% reservation for the community was not forthcoming by Tuesday afternoon.
Bainsla addressed a meeting at Madanpur on Tuesday evening and asked his community men to be prepared for Wednesday's agitation. He said, "I had suggested two formulas to the government and I hope that they (government) would accept any one of them to meet our demand. My aim is not to disrupt peace but justice for the community." he said.
Meanwhile, the chief minister has deputed energy minister Jitendra Singh, home minister Shanti Dhariwal and industry minister Rajendra Parikh for conducting talks with the Gujjars so as to resolve the issue. The state had also sent an invitation to the community but there was no response from the other side.
"In fact, Bainsla had made it clear at the mahapadav in Mehrawar on Sunday that we would no longer be holding talks with the government. This has become an easy way by them to hold us back. Whenever, we give a threat they come up with the issue of talks but nothing emerges from such talks," said Roop Singh, spokesperson of the Gujjar Arakshan Sangarsh Samiti.
"If the government wants to talk, they will have to send their emissary. We will not budge from here," he said. Sources in the government, however, said it is interested in talks and has even asked the ministers to go to the agitation site and hold discussions with Gujjars.
Meanwhile, the mahapadav being so long held at Mehrawar has now shifted to Madanpur. "Since there has been no talks or any indication of our demands, for a 5 % reservation or holding back recruitment in government jobs, being accepted by the government. Therefore, our deadline still stands," said Himmat Singh, a close aide of Bainsla.
On his part, Bainsla has intimated state BJP president Arun Chautrvedi of his intentions to resign from the party for the cause the community.
The mahapadav at Dausa and at Sikandra on Monday saw more people gathering at the site. The Sikandra market remained completely paralysed and road transport on the Sikandra highway has completely been disrupted.
The government in view of the threat has posted RAS officials with the district collectorate at Dausa for helping him out with the law and order situation there. Chief minister Ashok Gehlot also held a meeting with the DGP to take stock of the law and order situation in the
Gehlot's action followed threats by Gujjar leader Colonel Kirori Singh Bainsla of beginning a violent agitation if the promise for the 5% reservation for the community was not forthcoming by Tuesday afternoon.
Bainsla addressed a meeting at Madanpur on Tuesday evening and asked his community men to be prepared for Wednesday's agitation. He said, "I had suggested two formulas to the government and I hope that they (government) would accept any one of them to meet our demand. My aim is not to disrupt peace but justice for the community." he said.
Meanwhile, the chief minister has deputed energy minister Jitendra Singh, home minister Shanti Dhariwal and industry minister Rajendra Parikh for conducting talks with the Gujjars so as to resolve the issue. The state had also sent an invitation to the community but there was no response from the other side.
"In fact, Bainsla had made it clear at the mahapadav in Mehrawar on Sunday that we would no longer be holding talks with the government. This has become an easy way by them to hold us back. Whenever, we give a threat they come up with the issue of talks but nothing emerges from such talks," said Roop Singh, spokesperson of the Gujjar Arakshan Sangarsh Samiti.
"If the government wants to talk, they will have to send their emissary. We will not budge from here," he said. Sources in the government, however, said it is interested in talks and has even asked the ministers to go to the agitation site and hold discussions with Gujjars.
Meanwhile, the mahapadav being so long held at Mehrawar has now shifted to Madanpur. "Since there has been no talks or any indication of our demands, for a 5 % reservation or holding back recruitment in government jobs, being accepted by the government. Therefore, our deadline still stands," said Himmat Singh, a close aide of Bainsla.
On his part, Bainsla has intimated state BJP president Arun Chautrvedi of his intentions to resign from the party for the cause the community.
The mahapadav at Dausa and at Sikandra on Monday saw more people gathering at the site. The Sikandra market remained completely paralysed and road transport on the Sikandra highway has completely been disrupted.
The government in view of the threat has posted RAS officials with the district collectorate at Dausa for helping him out with the law and order situation there. Chief minister Ashok Gehlot also held a meeting with the DGP to take stock of the law and order situation in the
Bainsla to Intensify Stir if Demands Not Met by Tuesday
Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla today threatened to intensify the ongoing agitation by the community if the state government failed to meet their demand for 5% reservation in state jobs by tomorrow.
The one-day ultimatum was issued at the community's Mahapanchayat at Mehrawar village in Bharatpur district where Bainsla said the stir will gather further momentum throughout the state from May 5 if the Gujjars' demand for quota was not fulfilled.
"We have already given a lot of time to the state government which doesn't seems to be serious about solving the issue by according reservation to the community. We will wait till tomorrow. If government does not take concrete step in this direction, we will not stop and intensify the agitation throughout the state," he said.
He also directed his colleagues in different states to mobilize maximum support of the people for the agitation.
"Thousands of Gujjars attended the Mahapanchayat. They are taking rest at the same village and will leave for a nearby Madanpur village tomorrow morning," Bainsla said.
He also announced that he had decided to quit BJP in the interest of the community as the authenticity of his leadership was being questioned by the state government.
"Chief Minister was repeatedly alleging that I was misguiding my community people and doing the stir for mere political mileage and benefits. So I decided to quit the party. Now I am feeling very light and relaxed after announcing this," Bainsla told PTI over phone.
Another leader Harprasad threatened that the agitation may now take an ugly and violent turn and the state government would be solely responsible for this.
Gujjars are demanding five per cent reservation in jobs under Special Backward Class which includes Gujjar, Banjara, Raika, Rebari and Gadia Lohar communities.
Bainsla along with his supporters has held several rounds of meeting with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and State Energy Minister Jitendra Singh and State Home Minister Shanti Dhariwal in recent past to solve the issue, but the talks were inconclusive.
The state government had last month constituted the I S Israni Committee as directed by the Rajasthan High Court to look into the demand.
The committee after hearing all the sides submitted its report earlier today to the High Court in which it has recommended granting quota and special backward class status to the community.
The High Court had last year struck down the five per cent reservation for the community observing that the measure would exceed the 50 per cent reservation cap.
"Now I am not associated with any party but still I am on the front for my community. I challenge the CM that we will get reservation any how," Bainsla said.
Another Gujjar leader Harprasad said Bainsla was the leader of the community and not of any party. Bainsla joined the BJP to raise the community's demand in Parliament but due to some reasons it did not work out, he said.
However, BJP State President Arun Chaturvedi said he has not received any information on Bainsla quitting the party.
Bainsla joined BJP in April last year and was inducted as BJP's National Executive Member in March this year.
The one-day ultimatum was issued at the community's Mahapanchayat at Mehrawar village in Bharatpur district where Bainsla said the stir will gather further momentum throughout the state from May 5 if the Gujjars' demand for quota was not fulfilled.
"We have already given a lot of time to the state government which doesn't seems to be serious about solving the issue by according reservation to the community. We will wait till tomorrow. If government does not take concrete step in this direction, we will not stop and intensify the agitation throughout the state," he said.
He also directed his colleagues in different states to mobilize maximum support of the people for the agitation.
"Thousands of Gujjars attended the Mahapanchayat. They are taking rest at the same village and will leave for a nearby Madanpur village tomorrow morning," Bainsla said.
He also announced that he had decided to quit BJP in the interest of the community as the authenticity of his leadership was being questioned by the state government.
"Chief Minister was repeatedly alleging that I was misguiding my community people and doing the stir for mere political mileage and benefits. So I decided to quit the party. Now I am feeling very light and relaxed after announcing this," Bainsla told PTI over phone.
Another leader Harprasad threatened that the agitation may now take an ugly and violent turn and the state government would be solely responsible for this.
Gujjars are demanding five per cent reservation in jobs under Special Backward Class which includes Gujjar, Banjara, Raika, Rebari and Gadia Lohar communities.
Bainsla along with his supporters has held several rounds of meeting with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and State Energy Minister Jitendra Singh and State Home Minister Shanti Dhariwal in recent past to solve the issue, but the talks were inconclusive.
The state government had last month constituted the I S Israni Committee as directed by the Rajasthan High Court to look into the demand.
The committee after hearing all the sides submitted its report earlier today to the High Court in which it has recommended granting quota and special backward class status to the community.
The High Court had last year struck down the five per cent reservation for the community observing that the measure would exceed the 50 per cent reservation cap.
"Now I am not associated with any party but still I am on the front for my community. I challenge the CM that we will get reservation any how," Bainsla said.
Another Gujjar leader Harprasad said Bainsla was the leader of the community and not of any party. Bainsla joined the BJP to raise the community's demand in Parliament but due to some reasons it did not work out, he said.
However, BJP State President Arun Chaturvedi said he has not received any information on Bainsla quitting the party.
Bainsla joined BJP in April last year and was inducted as BJP's National Executive Member in March this year.
Armed goons loot Bakerwals’ cattle
Ministers, Police ignored our plea: Victims
Baba Umar
Srinagar, May 03: Dozens of nomadic Bakerwals of Kathua district on Tuesday alleged physical assaults and livestock looting by “pro-Hindutva” activists in Udhampur when the shepherds were in Majalta area of the district along with their cattle.
A delegation of community members told Rising Kashmir that around 300 pro-Hindutva activists in Udhampur led by Ramesh Sharma of Doma, Raju of Majalta and Laabu of Udhampur raided their caravan with tridents and swords besides looting livestock worth Rs 80 lakh.
“At this time of year we move towards upper pastures but when we reached Majalta, the trio came with almost 300 men and looted our belongings,” Muhammad Sadiq, one of the delegation members said.
He said the attack took place in the afternoon of April 7 and despite repeated attempts, officials didn’t help.
Another member, Muhammad Riyaz said the Hindu mob also fired many bullets “to threaten us of consequences if we didn’t leave the area quickly.”
“They attacked our children and women too. We ran away leaving our belongings there,” said Muhammad Azim, who was beaten up by the mob said.
Muslim Bakerwals’ migration from Jammu begins in February and the community reaches Udhampur by the end of the month when Gujjars of Udhampur too start upward migration.
The migratory route is almost parallel to Jammu-Srinagar highway, but up to Ramban the community adopts a shorter route avoiding traffic hazards on the highway.
From Ramban to Banihal, they take the highway route but they make every effort to avoid the busy road. After crossing the Jawahar tunnel they disperse and proceed towards the sub-alpine and alpine pastures which they have been using for a long time.
After this attack, Bakerwals said they are frightened, so much, that many of the community members are thinking to give up the migration practice.
“Now it has become quite dangerous to continue with our age-old migration,” a Bakerwal woman said.
Azim said the community members, immediately after attack and plunder on their livestock, visited police officials, Gujjar leader and Forest and Environment Minister Mian Altaf “but no one helped us.”
“Mian Altaf gave us three minutes to explain our story. He promised us action but nothing happened,” the community members said adding some police officials suggested them not to blow up the issue.
“That’s why we have come here to highlight what happened to us,” they said.
Officials have, meanwhile, rejected the allegations.
“There were no attacks on Bakerwals,” DC Udhampur Bashir Ahmad Khan told Rising Kashmir over phone.
“The Bakerwals’ livestock had lost track in the jungles and after complaints, it was recovered with the help of concerned SHO and Tehsildar,” he claimed.
SSP Udhampur, Surinder Gupta could not be contacted for his comments.
Baba Umar
Srinagar, May 03: Dozens of nomadic Bakerwals of Kathua district on Tuesday alleged physical assaults and livestock looting by “pro-Hindutva” activists in Udhampur when the shepherds were in Majalta area of the district along with their cattle.
A delegation of community members told Rising Kashmir that around 300 pro-Hindutva activists in Udhampur led by Ramesh Sharma of Doma, Raju of Majalta and Laabu of Udhampur raided their caravan with tridents and swords besides looting livestock worth Rs 80 lakh.
“At this time of year we move towards upper pastures but when we reached Majalta, the trio came with almost 300 men and looted our belongings,” Muhammad Sadiq, one of the delegation members said.
He said the attack took place in the afternoon of April 7 and despite repeated attempts, officials didn’t help.
Another member, Muhammad Riyaz said the Hindu mob also fired many bullets “to threaten us of consequences if we didn’t leave the area quickly.”
“They attacked our children and women too. We ran away leaving our belongings there,” said Muhammad Azim, who was beaten up by the mob said.
Muslim Bakerwals’ migration from Jammu begins in February and the community reaches Udhampur by the end of the month when Gujjars of Udhampur too start upward migration.
The migratory route is almost parallel to Jammu-Srinagar highway, but up to Ramban the community adopts a shorter route avoiding traffic hazards on the highway.
From Ramban to Banihal, they take the highway route but they make every effort to avoid the busy road. After crossing the Jawahar tunnel they disperse and proceed towards the sub-alpine and alpine pastures which they have been using for a long time.
After this attack, Bakerwals said they are frightened, so much, that many of the community members are thinking to give up the migration practice.
“Now it has become quite dangerous to continue with our age-old migration,” a Bakerwal woman said.
Azim said the community members, immediately after attack and plunder on their livestock, visited police officials, Gujjar leader and Forest and Environment Minister Mian Altaf “but no one helped us.”
“Mian Altaf gave us three minutes to explain our story. He promised us action but nothing happened,” the community members said adding some police officials suggested them not to blow up the issue.
“That’s why we have come here to highlight what happened to us,” they said.
Officials have, meanwhile, rejected the allegations.
“There were no attacks on Bakerwals,” DC Udhampur Bashir Ahmad Khan told Rising Kashmir over phone.
“The Bakerwals’ livestock had lost track in the jungles and after complaints, it was recovered with the help of concerned SHO and Tehsildar,” he claimed.
SSP Udhampur, Surinder Gupta could not be contacted for his comments.
Committee recommends quota for Gujjars
Jaipur, May 3 (PTI) A committee appointed by the High Court to look into the reservation demand of Gujjars in Rajasthan has recommended the government to grant quota and special backward class status to the community.
The I S Israni committee report submitted before the High Court has endorsed the recommendations of Justice Chopra Committee, which had recommended five per cent reservation for the community in 2007 in government employment and admission to educational institutions.
The Israni committee report has also asked the government to contest the reservation issue in favour of the community.
The committee was constituted by an interim order of the High Court to defuse law and order situation arising out of Gujjars' agitations in the state
The I S Israni committee report submitted before the High Court has endorsed the recommendations of Justice Chopra Committee, which had recommended five per cent reservation for the community in 2007 in government employment and admission to educational institutions.
The Israni committee report has also asked the government to contest the reservation issue in favour of the community.
The committee was constituted by an interim order of the High Court to defuse law and order situation arising out of Gujjars' agitations in the state
Bainsla quits BJP, to intensify agitation
JAIPUR: Less than two months after he found a place in the BJP’s national executive, Gujjar leader Col Kirori Singh Bainsla on Monday announced his resignation from the party. Bainsla, who became a member of the party in 2009 just before the Lok Sabha polls, had also contested and lost from Tonk-Sawai Madhopur constituency.
“I am resigning from all political posts that I hold,” Bainsla said at the mahapanchayat. “This fight is not for my personal gains but for the community. I want to congratulate the chief minister on his birthday on behalf of our community,” Bainsla said at a mahapanchayat called at Mehrawar in Alwar district on Monday.
“The matter is being dragged on and on... I give the government time till the afternoon of May 5. Either they announce a 5% reservation for us or else we will launch a strong agitation in the state,” he said. The mahapadav on that day will be held at Madanpur in the Bharatpur district, he said.
However, BJP president Arun Chaturvedi said that though he was aware of Bainsla announcing his resignation, he was yet to receive a formal letter.
“I am resigning from all political posts that I hold,” Bainsla said at the mahapanchayat. “This fight is not for my personal gains but for the community. I want to congratulate the chief minister on his birthday on behalf of our community,” Bainsla said at a mahapanchayat called at Mehrawar in Alwar district on Monday.
“The matter is being dragged on and on... I give the government time till the afternoon of May 5. Either they announce a 5% reservation for us or else we will launch a strong agitation in the state,” he said. The mahapadav on that day will be held at Madanpur in the Bharatpur district, he said.
However, BJP president Arun Chaturvedi said that though he was aware of Bainsla announcing his resignation, he was yet to receive a formal letter.
JK Gujjars demand separate channel on Doordarshan
STAFF WRITER 21:9 HRS IST
Jammu, May 2 (PTI) Expressing resentment over alleged non-representation of their mother tongue on Doordarshan, the Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir today demanded a separate channel on the network called "DD Gojri".
The demand was made by the communities in a communication sent to the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry through the Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, its Secretary Javaid Rabi told reporters here today.
Speakers of Gojri language feel totally ignored and overlooked by the policy makers of India's largest public broadcaster Prasar Bharti, Rabi said quoting the communication sent to the Union government in this regard
Jammu, May 2 (PTI) Expressing resentment over alleged non-representation of their mother tongue on Doordarshan, the Gujjars and Bakerwals of Jammu and Kashmir today demanded a separate channel on the network called "DD Gojri".
The demand was made by the communities in a communication sent to the Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry through the Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation, its Secretary Javaid Rabi told reporters here today.
Speakers of Gojri language feel totally ignored and overlooked by the policy makers of India's largest public broadcaster Prasar Bharti, Rabi said quoting the communication sent to the Union government in this regard
Gujjar leaders appear before Israni panel
Jaipur, Apr 29 (PTI) A delegation led by Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla today appeared before the Justice Israni Committee to explain its stand on demand of reservation in government jobs.
Gujjar leaders including Bainsla and Roop Singh, along with representatives from Banjara and Rebari community appeared before the committee headed by retired Rajasthan High Court judge I Israni.
The leaders apprised the committee of their stand on the reservation, Roop Singh told reporters after the meeting, adding they justified their demands and maintained that the quota was must for upliftment of their communities.
"We have demanded for implementation of the five per cent reservation at the earliest, which has been accorded to Gujjars, Raika, Rebari and Banjara community.
Gujjar leaders including Bainsla and Roop Singh, along with representatives from Banjara and Rebari community appeared before the committee headed by retired Rajasthan High Court judge I Israni.
The leaders apprised the committee of their stand on the reservation, Roop Singh told reporters after the meeting, adding they justified their demands and maintained that the quota was must for upliftment of their communities.
"We have demanded for implementation of the five per cent reservation at the earliest, which has been accorded to Gujjars, Raika, Rebari and Banjara community.
Gujjar leaders appear before Israni panel
Jaipur, Apr 29 (PTI) A delegation led by Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla today appeared before the Justice Israni Committee to explain its stand on demand of reservation in government jobs.
Gujjar leaders including Bainsla and Roop Singh, along with representatives from Banjara and Rebari community appeared before the committee headed by retired Rajasthan High Court judge I Israni.
The leaders apprised the committee of their stand on the reservation, Roop Singh told reporters after the meeting, adding they justified their demands and maintained that the quota was must for upliftment of their communities.
"We have demanded for implementation of the five per cent reservation at the earliest, which has been accorded to Gujjars, Raika, Rebari and Banjara community.
Gujjar leaders including Bainsla and Roop Singh, along with representatives from Banjara and Rebari community appeared before the committee headed by retired Rajasthan High Court judge I Israni.
The leaders apprised the committee of their stand on the reservation, Roop Singh told reporters after the meeting, adding they justified their demands and maintained that the quota was must for upliftment of their communities.
"We have demanded for implementation of the five per cent reservation at the earliest, which has been accorded to Gujjars, Raika, Rebari and Banjara community.
Vishvendra Singh meets Gujjars,pledges support
JAIPUR: Throwing their weight behind the agitating Gujjars,former Bharatpur MP Vishvendra Singh and his wife Divya Singh called on the Gujjar leaders at the mahapadav in Dausa on Tuesday and vouched the support of Jat community for their cause.
Earlier,president of Jat Mahasabha,Rajaram Meel had also pledged support of his community while Kirorilal Meena has been openly vouching for the Gujjar cause.
The couple addressed the mahapadav at Dausa and said that the Gujjars must be given reservation within the 50% cap set by the Supreme Court.They said that the 5% reservation may be taken from the 14% reservation meant for the OBCs and given to the Gujjars, said Himmat Singh,a senior Gujjar leader in Dausa.
Earlier on Monday,Gujjar Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti spokesperson Roop Singh was in Jaipur for consulting a research scholar on the reservation rights for the Gujjars.The scholar is researching on criminal tribes in the state.There are certain links that she is working on for the Gujjars too and she had suggested a 10% reservation for us, Roop Singh said.
Meanwhile,the mahapadavs at various locations in the state are still on as members of the Gujjar community continue their peaceful agitation in various parts of the state.
The proposed meeting of Colonel Kirori Singh Bainsla with the Israni committee slated for Monday has now been rescheduled for Thursday.
DGP reviews security in city
Director general of police (DGP) Harish Chandra Meena reviewed security arrangements in the district at a meeting in the police control room on Tuesday.Apart from bandobast for Gujjar reservation agitation,he enquired about progress in various loot and murder cases in the city recently.Meena was apprised of progress in these cases.The meeting began around noon and ended at 2 pm.With danger of Gujjars entering the city to press their demand for reservation still looming large,Meena took stock of the situation and asked the officers to remain extra vigilant.TNN
Earlier,president of Jat Mahasabha,Rajaram Meel had also pledged support of his community while Kirorilal Meena has been openly vouching for the Gujjar cause.
The couple addressed the mahapadav at Dausa and said that the Gujjars must be given reservation within the 50% cap set by the Supreme Court.They said that the 5% reservation may be taken from the 14% reservation meant for the OBCs and given to the Gujjars, said Himmat Singh,a senior Gujjar leader in Dausa.
Earlier on Monday,Gujjar Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti spokesperson Roop Singh was in Jaipur for consulting a research scholar on the reservation rights for the Gujjars.The scholar is researching on criminal tribes in the state.There are certain links that she is working on for the Gujjars too and she had suggested a 10% reservation for us, Roop Singh said.
Meanwhile,the mahapadavs at various locations in the state are still on as members of the Gujjar community continue their peaceful agitation in various parts of the state.
The proposed meeting of Colonel Kirori Singh Bainsla with the Israni committee slated for Monday has now been rescheduled for Thursday.
DGP reviews security in city
Director general of police (DGP) Harish Chandra Meena reviewed security arrangements in the district at a meeting in the police control room on Tuesday.Apart from bandobast for Gujjar reservation agitation,he enquired about progress in various loot and murder cases in the city recently.Meena was apprised of progress in these cases.The meeting began around noon and ended at 2 pm.With danger of Gujjars entering the city to press their demand for reservation still looming large,Meena took stock of the situation and asked the officers to remain extra vigilant.TNN
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Bainsla says Gujjars will resume march to Jaipur
JAIPUR: A day after their talks with the state government ended in a stalemate, Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla on Sunday threatened to resume his plans to take out a march to the state capital to press for quota in government jobs for his community.
Accusing the government of giving only assurances and no concrete action, he directed members of his community to get ready for a full-fledged agitation.
The Gujjar leader said he would wait for five more days even as protests and gathering of people continued in Dausa, Ajmer, Pushkar, Alwar, Tonk and other districts on Sunday.
According to Bainsla, he tried his best to solve the issue during his talks with the chief minister and even suggested possible ways to accord reservation to his community. However, the government was not ready for it. Appealing to local Gujjar leaders to mobilise more and more people, he said the agitation would continue till the demands were met.
A senior Gujjar leader, Dharamjeet Singh, told TOI from Gazipur in Dausa that they would continue their stir in their respective districts. Meanwhile, chief minister Ashok Gehlot said on Sunday that his government was seriously trying to solve the crisis. Maintaining peace was the priority of the government and at the same time it was sensitive towards the demands of Gujjars, he said
Accusing the government of giving only assurances and no concrete action, he directed members of his community to get ready for a full-fledged agitation.
The Gujjar leader said he would wait for five more days even as protests and gathering of people continued in Dausa, Ajmer, Pushkar, Alwar, Tonk and other districts on Sunday.
According to Bainsla, he tried his best to solve the issue during his talks with the chief minister and even suggested possible ways to accord reservation to his community. However, the government was not ready for it. Appealing to local Gujjar leaders to mobilise more and more people, he said the agitation would continue till the demands were met.
A senior Gujjar leader, Dharamjeet Singh, told TOI from Gazipur in Dausa that they would continue their stir in their respective districts. Meanwhile, chief minister Ashok Gehlot said on Sunday that his government was seriously trying to solve the crisis. Maintaining peace was the priority of the government and at the same time it was sensitive towards the demands of Gujjars, he said
Talks between Gujjar leaders, CM Gehlot fails; agitation to continue
In a major setback for the two sides, the second round of talks between Gujjar delegation led by Col Kirori Singh Bainsala and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot failed to find out an amicable solution of five per cent reservation demand of the Gujjar community.
Now, Gujjars' Mahapadav at various places like Alwar, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Sirohi and Gazipur would continue till Col Bainsala orders them to March to Jaipur.
After emerging from the venue of the talks at the chief minister's residence, Col Bainsala told HT "the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere and I discussed all major demands with chief minister who was receptive."
"I got assurances but problem will be solved only if government agrees to give 5 per cent reservation to the Gujjar community in the jobs," he said.
Col Bainsala said "there is consensus over the issues like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, withdrawal of the cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation, pension for the seriously injured Gujjars in the agitation, compensation to the kin of deceased and release of the leaders jailed during the stir for indulging in violence.
"But our agitation would continue till major demand of 5 per cent reservation is accepted by the government, he added.
Chief minister, Ghelot said "the case is sub-judice and it will be impossible to violate the law. I am ready to go to any extent to resolve current issue provided it does not adversely affect other castes."
Ghelot said "previous BJP government intentionally clubbed 5 per cent reservation for Gujjars with 14 per cent reservation for economically backward classes. The matter went to the court which has stayed it."
Gehlot categorically told the Gujjar leader Col Bainsala that it would not be possible for the government to accord more than four per cent reservation as the Rajasthan High Court had put a stay on quota beyond that limit.
However, the government was willing to plead in the high court to vacate the stay and if required besides pleading in the Supreme Court to quash it but till then its hands were tied, Gehlot informed Gujjars leaders.
Gehlot said it would be absolutely unjustified if a ban was imposed on job recruitments opened by the government for the OBC, as it would directly affect the youth of other castes like Lohar, Rabari, Gadasia and Banjaras.
Gehlot made it clear that the recruitments for the jobs was aimed at helping the unemployed youth but a final decision would be taken after the high court gave its verdict in this case.
Dr Roop Singh, senior Gujjar leader said "talks have been suspended and they have not broken as we might resume the dialogue at appropriate time." "We will decide about the next course of action after taking into confidence our people," he said.
Gujjars leaders are consulting the senior lawyers prior to opting for direct confrontation with the state government, he said.
Col Bainsala and other leaders have reached Gazipur, 161 km east of Jaipur to finalise the next strategy.
What happened on Saturday?
Col Bainsala held talks with chief minister on the issue of five per cent reservation for Gujjars after a successful preliminary dialogue between a Gujjar delegation and government representatives set the tone.
Col Bainsala first met a ministerial committee of state Power Minister Jitendra Singh, state Transport Minister Brij Kishore Sharma and state Urban Development and Housing Minister Shanti Dhariwal.
Dhariwal said after the meeting that they had focused on other demands of Gujjars like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, taking back cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation and release of those who were jailed following the agitation
Col Bainsala and Mehraram, a Rebari leader, went to meet the chief minister at his residence in the evening. They were hopeful that a solution could be found soon.
Col Bainsala arrived at Hotel Teej in the morning and met with Rebari leaders. Bainsala said that he was fighting for the rights of not only the Gujjars but also the Rebari, Gadia Luhar and Banjara communities who have been promised five per cent reservation.
The Gujjars and government have been consulting legal experts to find a way out of the present muddle. There is a view that new bills may have to be brought into the assembly separating the five per cent reservation for Gujjars and 14 per cent for Economically Backward Classes that were clubbed together by the BJP government when the bill was passed by the assembly in 2008.
On Friday evening, Singh and Sharma had held preliminary round of talks with an 11-member delegation sent by Bainsala. Both sides said the two-hour long talks were positive, paving the way for dialogue between Bainsala and Gehlot
Now, Gujjars' Mahapadav at various places like Alwar, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Sirohi and Gazipur would continue till Col Bainsala orders them to March to Jaipur.
After emerging from the venue of the talks at the chief minister's residence, Col Bainsala told HT "the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere and I discussed all major demands with chief minister who was receptive."
"I got assurances but problem will be solved only if government agrees to give 5 per cent reservation to the Gujjar community in the jobs," he said.
Col Bainsala said "there is consensus over the issues like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, withdrawal of the cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation, pension for the seriously injured Gujjars in the agitation, compensation to the kin of deceased and release of the leaders jailed during the stir for indulging in violence.
"But our agitation would continue till major demand of 5 per cent reservation is accepted by the government, he added.
Chief minister, Ghelot said "the case is sub-judice and it will be impossible to violate the law. I am ready to go to any extent to resolve current issue provided it does not adversely affect other castes."
Ghelot said "previous BJP government intentionally clubbed 5 per cent reservation for Gujjars with 14 per cent reservation for economically backward classes. The matter went to the court which has stayed it."
Gehlot categorically told the Gujjar leader Col Bainsala that it would not be possible for the government to accord more than four per cent reservation as the Rajasthan High Court had put a stay on quota beyond that limit.
However, the government was willing to plead in the high court to vacate the stay and if required besides pleading in the Supreme Court to quash it but till then its hands were tied, Gehlot informed Gujjars leaders.
Gehlot said it would be absolutely unjustified if a ban was imposed on job recruitments opened by the government for the OBC, as it would directly affect the youth of other castes like Lohar, Rabari, Gadasia and Banjaras.
Gehlot made it clear that the recruitments for the jobs was aimed at helping the unemployed youth but a final decision would be taken after the high court gave its verdict in this case.
Dr Roop Singh, senior Gujjar leader said "talks have been suspended and they have not broken as we might resume the dialogue at appropriate time." "We will decide about the next course of action after taking into confidence our people," he said.
Gujjars leaders are consulting the senior lawyers prior to opting for direct confrontation with the state government, he said.
Col Bainsala and other leaders have reached Gazipur, 161 km east of Jaipur to finalise the next strategy.
What happened on Saturday?
Col Bainsala held talks with chief minister on the issue of five per cent reservation for Gujjars after a successful preliminary dialogue between a Gujjar delegation and government representatives set the tone.
Col Bainsala first met a ministerial committee of state Power Minister Jitendra Singh, state Transport Minister Brij Kishore Sharma and state Urban Development and Housing Minister Shanti Dhariwal.
Dhariwal said after the meeting that they had focused on other demands of Gujjars like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, taking back cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation and release of those who were jailed following the agitation
Col Bainsala and Mehraram, a Rebari leader, went to meet the chief minister at his residence in the evening. They were hopeful that a solution could be found soon.
Col Bainsala arrived at Hotel Teej in the morning and met with Rebari leaders. Bainsala said that he was fighting for the rights of not only the Gujjars but also the Rebari, Gadia Luhar and Banjara communities who have been promised five per cent reservation.
The Gujjars and government have been consulting legal experts to find a way out of the present muddle. There is a view that new bills may have to be brought into the assembly separating the five per cent reservation for Gujjars and 14 per cent for Economically Backward Classes that were clubbed together by the BJP government when the bill was passed by the assembly in 2008.
On Friday evening, Singh and Sharma had held preliminary round of talks with an 11-member delegation sent by Bainsala. Both sides said the two-hour long talks were positive, paving the way for dialogue between Bainsala and Gehlot
Talks between Gujjar leaders, CM Gehlot fails; agitation to continue
In a major setback for the two sides, the second round of talks between Gujjar delegation led by Col Kirori Singh Bainsala and Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot failed to find out an amicable solution of five per cent reservation demand of the Gujjar community.
Now, Gujjars' Mahapadav at various places like Alwar, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Sirohi and Gazipur would continue till Col Bainsala orders them to March to Jaipur.
After emerging from the venue of the talks at the chief minister's residence, Col Bainsala told HT "the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere and I discussed all major demands with chief minister who was receptive."
"I got assurances but problem will be solved only if government agrees to give 5 per cent reservation to the Gujjar community in the jobs," he said.
Col Bainsala said "there is consensus over the issues like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, withdrawal of the cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation, pension for the seriously injured Gujjars in the agitation, compensation to the kin of deceased and release of the leaders jailed during the stir for indulging in violence.
"But our agitation would continue till major demand of 5 per cent reservation is accepted by the government, he added.
Chief minister, Ghelot said "the case is sub-judice and it will be impossible to violate the law. I am ready to go to any extent to resolve current issue provided it does not adversely affect other castes."
Ghelot said "previous BJP government intentionally clubbed 5 per cent reservation for Gujjars with 14 per cent reservation for economically backward classes. The matter went to the court which has stayed it."
Gehlot categorically told the Gujjar leader Col Bainsala that it would not be possible for the government to accord more than four per cent reservation as the Rajasthan High Court had put a stay on quota beyond that limit.
Now, Gujjars' Mahapadav at various places like Alwar, Ajmer, Jodhpur, Pali, Sirohi and Gazipur would continue till Col Bainsala orders them to March to Jaipur.
After emerging from the venue of the talks at the chief minister's residence, Col Bainsala told HT "the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere and I discussed all major demands with chief minister who was receptive."
"I got assurances but problem will be solved only if government agrees to give 5 per cent reservation to the Gujjar community in the jobs," he said.
Col Bainsala said "there is consensus over the issues like five per cent reservation in the 80,000 jobs, withdrawal of the cases against those accused in the 2008 agitation, pension for the seriously injured Gujjars in the agitation, compensation to the kin of deceased and release of the leaders jailed during the stir for indulging in violence.
"But our agitation would continue till major demand of 5 per cent reservation is accepted by the government, he added.
Chief minister, Ghelot said "the case is sub-judice and it will be impossible to violate the law. I am ready to go to any extent to resolve current issue provided it does not adversely affect other castes."
Ghelot said "previous BJP government intentionally clubbed 5 per cent reservation for Gujjars with 14 per cent reservation for economically backward classes. The matter went to the court which has stayed it."
Gehlot categorically told the Gujjar leader Col Bainsala that it would not be possible for the government to accord more than four per cent reservation as the Rajasthan High Court had put a stay on quota beyond that limit.
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