By IANS
Jaipur : The Gujjar community in Rajasthan is against an extension to the Justice Jasraj Chopra committee, set up by the state government to look into their demand for scheduled tribe status. The community is reportedly planning protests if the report is not submitted on time.
The committee, set up June 12, was to submit its report by Sep 12. It has now sought extension up to Dec 15 saying it has been able to complete only 40 percent of the work.
Though Gujjar leaders did not disclose their future strategy, they were firm that they would not give any extra time to the government on the issue and would oppose any extension given to the committee.
“We are adamant on our demands and will not give even an hour extra to the state government after Sep 12,” said Prahlad Gunjal, a Gujjar leader.
With the deadline approaching, informed sources say meetings and discussions have begun among the top Gujjar leaders.
“I am confident that the state government would send a letter to the Centre recommending tribal status to the community by the stipulated date. If it fails then it will have to face consequences,” said K.L. Bainsla, president of the Gujjar Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti.
Bainsla may even initiate a protest at the Dholpur Maha panchayat scheduled Sep 13, the sources said.
But some leaders are of the view that the committee should be given ample time to arrive at suitable recommendations based on facts.
Gujjars, presently categorised as other backward classes (OBC), held protests all over Rajasthan from May 29 to June 4 demanding their inclusion in the scheduled tribe category that would give them better employment and educational opportunities.
Normal life was paralysed and at least 26 people were killed during the violent protests. On June 4, the state government and agitating Gujjars reached an understanding on the formation of a high-powered committee that was supposed to present its report in three months.