Gujjars, Rajasthan govt. to resume talks today

Jaipur, June 16: The expected talks between the Rajasthan government and Gujjar leader Colonel Kirori Singh Bainsla will resume here today.

Bainsla was expected to come to Jaipur on Sunday to participate in the talks between the four-member Gujjar delegation and the State Government. But, he refused to come to Jaipur later saying that his participation will depend on the State Government's response to the fresh suggestions given by them.

This development followed a briefing at Pilupura by the four-member delegation on the outcome of its two days of deliberations with the State Government. The team will convey the views of the Gujjar leadership to the government's proposals.

Members of the community are demanding that their place in the caste system be downgraded and granted tribal status so they can qualify for government jobs and university places reserved for such groups.

A year ago, Gujjars fought police and members of another caste that qualifies for job quotas. At least 25 people died in the clashes.

After these protests, a State Government committee decided that the Gujjars should not be downgraded, but said the government would spend 2.8 billion rupees improving schools, clinics and roads in Gujjar areas.

Gujjar leaders rejected this. For the last two weeks, Gujjars have been blocking roads and railway tracks and torched government vehicles. (ANI)