Brought into the state to work as sweepers, the community has for over 60 years been denied basic educational, work, voting and residential rights owing to Article 35A.
Jammu: The Valmikis living in Jammu and Kashmir are among the worst victims of human rights violations in the state. Their discrimination, however, has been justified by a provision in the Indian constitution – which violate their fundamental rights.
Though Articles 35A and 370 are under discussion and their constitutional validity is being verified by the Supreme Court, it is essential to highlight the plight of the Valmikis, who for over six decades have been discriminated against only because they are not ‘permanent residents.’
Valmikis are essentially Dalits. Historically, they have faced widespread oppression and repression from other castes. They have often been victims of caste-based violence. Some claim that they are the descendants of hermit Valmiki who wrote the epic Ramayana.
The Constitution is Allowing the Continued Discrimination of Valmikis in J&K
Jammu: The Valmikis living in Jammu and Kashmir are among the worst victims of human rights violations in the state. Their discrimination, however, has been justified by a provision in the Indian constitution – which violate their fundamental rights.
