The issue of processing ‘Dogra certificate’ for youth belonging to Jammu region is once again gaining currency here in the corridors of power.
The contentious issue seen through the prism of two distinct regions of the State is set to test the ‘bonhomie’ between the alliance partners PDP and BJP in the coming days.
Union Minister of State in the PMO, Jitendra Singh, during his weekend visit to the State on Sunday unilaterally suggested to the PDP-BJP coalition Government to bring in the legislation for restoring Dogra certificate to its original format.
On Saturday while meeting border residents in Hiranagar sector of Kathua he had even blamed Congress for reversing the decision of processing Dogra Certificate and hurting the Dogra pride.
The Dogra certificate, originally meant for relaxation in physical standards of height and chest for the unemployed youth for recruitment to central paramilitary forces and Army, was restricted to residents of Jammu division only.
The same issue had earlier strained relations between the Congress and National Conference in March 2011.
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was forced by circumstances and the valley based politicians including separatist leaders to reverse the order issued by the then Revenue Minister Raman Bhalla from the Congress party.
Interacting with the media persons during a Press programme at Jammu Press club on Sunday Jitendra Singh said, “The Dogra certificate was there for long and it helped the youth of the region to get accommodated in the Defense services. But the Congress Government diluted the certificate in the name of equality between the two regions, but it helped nobody.”
Clarifying his statement further Singh said, “let me make it clear that this certificate is not based on any region, religion, caste, or any other consideration. It is based on scientific observation that there have been some sections of youth living in certain Kandi areas of Jammu who are better fitting to join the forces. Just as you have certain communities in Kumaon area, or people among the Gorkhas, likewise you have the Dogras.’’