PDP Legislator Waheed Parra Supports Youth Movement for Fair Reservation Policies

Srinagar : PDP legislator Waheed Parra has voiced support for the youth-led movement advocating for fairness and rationality in reservation policies, welcoming National Conference Parliament Member, Aga Syed Ruhullah’s decision to align with these demands.

Parra took to microblogging site X and emphasized the need for proportional representation and policies that are both inclusive and merit-based.

“This is a pivotal moment to address pressing grievances and ensure our policies are youth-friendly and just,” Parra stated. He underscored the importance of proportional representation, a system designed to allocate opportunities based on socio-economic realities, ensuring balanced empowerment without disproportionately favoring any group.

Parra as per the news agency clarified that the movement does not oppose affirmative action but seeks to strengthen it. “Inclusion through reservation must go beyond tokenism to foster substantive equality,” he said, adding that empowering marginalized communities should involve enabling them to lead change rather than being passive participants.

He also stressed that merit must remain central to the system. “Reservations must serve as targeted exceptions to bridge inequalities, not tools for perpetual imbalance. Policies that reduce the majority to a minority are neither just nor sustainable,” Parra said, highlighting the aspirations of youth in the Open Merit category who feel neglected.

Calling for peaceful protests as a cornerstone of democracy, Parra reaffirmed his solidarity with the youth, stating that their struggle is about creating a fair and unified future. “The streets are the crucible of change,” he remarked, extending his prayers and best wishes for the ongoing programs led by NC leader Ruhullah Mehdi. [KNT]