Udhampur, Feb 12: A delegation representing the Akhil Jammu Kashmir Koli-Sippy Samaj visited the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office in Udhampur on Monday to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the “Modi Sarkar” for granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the ‘Kolis’ in J&K, the party leaders said.
They said the significant decision, which has been passed through both Houses of Parliament, is expected to be followed by a detailed notification soon.
Arun Gupta, District President of BJP, highlighted the transformative impact of the historic decision made on August 5, 2019, which he said paved the way for groundbreaking initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at the gathering, Ranbir Singh Pathania, Spokesperson of J&K BJP, elucidated the cultural and socio-economic background of the ‘Kolis’ ethnic group. He highlighted their shared identity, culture, language, and livelihood, underscoring their rightful place as a tribal community deserving of ST status. Pathania recounted the concerted efforts made by various stakeholders to advocate for the recognition of ‘Kolis’ as STs, including presentations before the Commission for Educationally and Socially Backward Classes and engagements with government officials.
Expressing gratitude, Hukam Chand, President of All J&K Koli Sabha, commended the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party for addressing the legitimate demand of the ‘Kolis’. He specifically acknowledged Pathania’s proactive role in championing the cause at various forums.
However, Khem Raj expressed scepticism towards certain opposition leaders who are now showing support for the ‘Kolis’, questioning their past actions while in power. He urged them to account for their lack of action in addressing the discrimination faced by the community.
