Kashmir Valley MLAs protest low representation in J&K administrative services

Legislators from Jammu and Kashmir have objected to what they describe as inadequate representation for Kashmir Valley in the latest recruitment to the union territory's administrative cadre. The controversy emerged following Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's distribution of appointment orders to 55 candidates who cleared the Combined Competitive Examination for entry into the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service and Jammu and Kashmir Accounts (Gazetted) Service.

According to the MLAs, candidates from Kashmir Valley have secured only 18 per cent of the total positions in the latest recruitment cycle, a figure they contend falls significantly short of equitable regional representation. The grievance highlights ongoing concerns about proportional representation in recruitment processes across the union territory.

The appointments represent one of the first major recruitment drives under the current administration in Jammu and Kashmir. Officials have indicated that the selection process followed prescribed examination protocols and merit-based criteria established by the Public Service Commission.

Regional representation in public sector recruitment has remained a contentious issue in Jammu and Kashmir, with different areas advocating for adequate employment opportunities. The administration has not yet issued a formal response to the MLAs' concerns regarding the representation figures.