How Article 370 Nullification Benefitted the Valmiki Community

The nullification of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir has ushered in significant changes for the Valmiki community, who have historically faced severe restrictions and discrimination. Let’s explore the circumstances faced by the Valmikis before the nullification and how their situation has transformed since then.

Who Are the Valmiki Community?

The Valmiki community was brought to Jammu and Kashmir in 1957 to work as sanitation workers. Due to the lack of Permanent Resident Certificates (PRC), they were restricted to this occupation and denied various rights, including the ability to purchase property, secure government jobs, or access higher education.

Challenges Faced by the Valmiki Community

Under the Jammu & Kashmir Constitution, the Valmikis were not considered "Permanent Residents." This exclusion denied them many fundamental rights and kept them at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder. They could not vote in state elections, own property, or access professional education and government jobs. This denial of rights persisted for over six decades, perpetuating their marginalization and economic hardships.

Positive Changes Post Nullification of Article 370

The nullification of Article 370 has dramatically improved the situation for the Valmiki community. With the new domicile law, Valmikis can now obtain domicile certificates, granting them the same rights as other citizens of India. This historic change has opened up numerous opportunities for the community:

1.Access to Education and Employment: Valmikis can now apply for government jobs and pursue higher education in professional courses, which were previously inaccessible. This has opened up diverse career paths and improved their economic prospects.

2.Property Ownership: The community can now purchase property in Jammu and Kashmir, enabling them to secure better living conditions and invest in real estate.

3. Voting Rights: For the first time, Valmikis were able to participate in the District Development Council (DDC) elections in 2020. This inclusion in the electoral process has empowered them to have a say in local governance.

4.Social Integration and Recognition: The newfound recognition and rights have fostered a sense of belonging and integration within the broader Indian society. The end of discriminatory practices has instilled pride and aspiration in the community.

Personal Stories and Community Rejoicing

Members of the Valmiki community have shared their experiences of hope and transformation post-abrogation. Manga Matoo, a 52-year-old sanitation worker, expressed his emotions while narrating the success story of his daughter, Ekta Matoo, who is studying law. "It is only after the abrogation of the discriminatory Article 35A that we can hope to see our next generations live in Jammu and Kashmir with dignity and honour," he said. Ekta Matoo added, "Abrogation of Article 35A has made it possible for a student like me to fulfill the dream of becoming an advocate." Similarly, Abhijeet, another Valmiki youth, aims to crack the prestigious Jammu and Kashmir Combined Services Examination. He shared his optimism, "Now we are eligible to participate in the recruitment process of all government jobs in J&K." The historic decision has also brought relief to those who suffered under the previous regime. Meenu Gill, a bright student who was denied the chance to pursue medical studies due to the lack of PRC, expressed her happiness for future generations. "My life is spoiled due to Article 35A but I am really happy that the future generations will not face the discrimination and prejudice which we had faced for years together," she said.

Conclusion

The nullification of Article 370 has been a turning point for the Valmiki community in Jammu and Kashmir. By removing the barriers imposed by the erstwhile special status, the community has gained access to rights, opportunities, and social justice. This historic change marked the beginning of a new era of equality and empowerment for the Valmikis, enabling them to dream of and achieve a better future.