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The traditional caste system in India was closely tied to the agrarian economy, which revolved around agriculture and cattle. Communities engaged in cattle-related occupations have generally been recognised under the OBC category across most states. However, in Jammu & Kashmir, there exists a glaring anomaly.
The Gaw Gujree community of the Kashmir Valley has traditionally played a vital role in the agrarian economy by grazing cattle belonging to other communities, receiving foodgrains in return. It is not a landowning caste.
Comparable groups such as the Chopan, who graze sheep, are recognised as Other Backward Classes (OBC); the Bakerwals are listed as a Scheduled Tribe; and the Sheer Gojrie, traditionally engaged in milk products, are also included under OBC. Yet, the Gaw Gujree alone remain excluded from both OBC and ST categories.
This exclusion has left the community marginalised, with no educated leadership to consistently advocate for their rights. While comparable communities in other states have progressed significantly, some even producing chief ministers, the Gaw Gujrees of Jammu and Kashmir continue to struggle for the most basic recognition: inclusion in the OBC list.
Through this letter, I appeal to the Government of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir to urgently address this injustice and ensure that the Gaw Gujree community receives the rightful recognition it has long been denied.
Mohd. Yousuf
Budgam
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