Sir,
It is painful to mark that the Govt of India as well as Govt of J&K has played with the feelings of Pahari people of remote areas of Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar, Karna and shown a callous attitude towards them. A long pending demand of more than 20 years for ST status has proved that we Paharis are not a part of India.Whenever we raised our voice regarding ST status we have been either crushed or discriminated by politicians.
We have been neglected in all aspects whether its setting up of Pahari hostels or the way in which scholarships are being disbursed. 100 percent Pahari hostels have been sanctioned in files, out of which one percent has been established. In case Pahari status is not granted it will be grave injustice with those who sacrificed their lives for this cause.
Yours etc….
Ashutosh Khanna
Jammu University