Jammu BJP MLAs protest against Urdu mandate
BJP MLAs in Jammu staged a protest outside the Civil Secretariat on July 14, opposing the government’s decision to make Urdu a compulsory language requirement for the Naib Tehsildar recruitment examination. The legislators demanded that the order be rolled back, arguing that it discriminates against aspirants from non-Urdu-speaking regions of the Union Territory.
BJP Leaders Call It Unfair
The protest was led by BJP General Secretary and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, who said the requirement creates an unfair barrier for candidates from Jammu, Kathua, Udhampur, and other areas where Urdu is not commonly spoken. He said that such policies go against the principle of equal opportunity and deprive local youth of fair access to government jobs.
Escalation Warning from Legislators
BJP leaders said they had earlier submitted memorandums, met the Lieutenant Governor, and held discussions with officials to seek a resolution. However, no action has been taken. The party has warned of expanding protests across the region if the decision is not immediately revoked.
Recruitment Process Details
The Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board had, in a notification issued on June 9, mandated a “working knowledge of Urdu” test for candidates applying for the 75 Naib Tehsildar posts. These roles are important in the revenue department and require administrative fieldwork. The new rule means aspirants must now clear an additional Urdu language test alongside the main written examination.
Regional Reactions and Political Sensitivity
While the current administration has not made any official statement on the protest, the issue has stirred political tension in the region. Many local groups have also voiced concern, stating that the language requirement could marginalise candidates who are otherwise qualified but do not speak or read Urdu.
