Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): In a significant move, the Jammu and Kashmir government has extended the tenure of the Local Bodies Dedicated Backward Classes Commission until February 28, allowing it more time to finalize recommendations on reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
The commission, originally constituted last year, was tasked with formulating a framework for OBC representation in local governance. Its term had expired on December 31, 2024, but the newly elected government has now granted an extension, underscoring its commitment to social justice and inclusive development.
The panel is chaired by Justice (Retd.) Janak Raj Kotwal and includes Raj Kumar Baghat, a retired IAS officer, and Prof. (Dr.) Mohinder Singh Badwal, former Dean of SKUAST Jammu. With its extended mandate, the commission is expected to submit its report by the end of this month.
The findings and recommendations of the panel are expected to shape the upcoming local body elections in J&K, which have been pending for some time. The implementation of OBC reservations in these grassroots democratic institutions is likely to have significant political and social implications, influencing voter sentiment and the electoral landscape in the Union Territory.
The move also aligns with broader national trends advocating for increased representation of marginalized communities in governance. Political analysts believe that once the commission’s report is submitted, the government may expedite preparations for Panchayat and Municipal elections, ensuring greater participation from historically underrepresented groups.
With the deadline now set for February 28, all eyes will be on the commission’s recommendations and how they impact the democratic process in Jammu and Kashmir.(DD)