Early Times Report
Rajouri, Sept 13: Pahari leaders have demanded to bring entire Pir Panjal region along with some parts of Kashmir under Schedule Tribe (ST) category. As per press release, leaders said in 1991 the then Union Government had extended ST category to Gujjars and Bakerwals community who are sharing the same habitations, culture, festivals with the Paharis and since then Paharis are struggling for the same benefits. To discuss their problems and how to achieve their goal to get ST Status, a meeting of the Pahari Community delegates was held at Rajouri today which was organized by advocate Rajinder Mehta, spokesman J&K Pahari People Movement (JKPPM) and was presided over by A.R.Mirza Chief organiser. Shahbaz Khan, Chief Executive, JKPPM lambasted both the Union as well as State governments for lingering on the issue deliberately to bring Pahari speaking community under ST category. |
