Gujjar-Raje talks successful; agitation called off

JAIPUR: The week-long violent agitation by Gujjars was called off after the Rajasthan government agreed to set up a high-power committee headed by a retired High Court judge to examine their demand for Scheduled Tribe status.

After three days of protracted negotiations with leaders of Gujjar Arakshan Sangharsh Samiti, Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje said the talks have been "successful" and the Samiti has agreed to withdraw its agitation.

The three-member committee, to be headed by a retired Rajasthan High Court judge, would examine the norms laid down for Gujjars in their current status in the OBC category and consider their representation for inclusion in the ST list, Raje told a joint press conference with leaders of the Samiti, which had spearheaded the agitation since Tuesday last.

The committee, which will have an expert on the issue of the Scheduled Tribe reservation as its secretary, would submit its report to the state government in three months, she said.

"We have withdrawn our agitation. We regret the violence and the loss of life including those of two policemen," in the agitation, leaders of the Samiti led by Col (retd) Kirori Singh Bainsala said.

The Chief Minister also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of all those killed in the violence.

While 21 people died in police firing and violence during the Gujjar agitation, five persons were killed in clashes between Gujjars and Meenas, who opposed the demand for ST status. Meenas, who are in the ST category, have substantial representation in political parties and the government.

Raje said the state government would move faster on the administrative and legal procedures on the issue of the Gujjar demand keeping in view the Centre's norms and procedures.

"The talks on the Gurjar demand of shifting them from OBC to ST category were positive and fruitful and hurdles have been overcome. We have come to an understanding and found a solution through democratic means," she told a crowded press conference at her official residence after six hours of parleys with the Samiti leaders.

"We will try to ensure that justice is done to everyone and no one gets injustice," she said in apparent reference to the Meena community while replying to questions.

A senior government official said 10-12 hours would be needed to restore normalcy in the state, which had witnessed large-scale violence.

In his response to the government decision to appoint the high-power committee, Rajasthan Food Minister and a Meena leader, K L Meena said the government has not acceded to the Gujjars' demand for a communication to the Centre on giving ST status to the community.

"We had told the government that under no circumstances should it write to the Centre. The government has not written any letter. This is our victory," he said.

Reacting to the understanding, Gujjar leader and Congress MP Avtar Singh Bhadana said, "We have full faith that the committee will give recommendations in our favour."