Agitated Jats' logjam likely to end, Govt to form new body for OBCs

File image shows Jat community protesting while demanding inclusion of their caste in OBC/ AFP Photo

New Delhi: The central government on Thursday attempted to settle the prolonged Jat-agitation row, which seeks inclusion of their caste in Other Backward Classes. The government has decided to dissolve National Commission for Backward classes (NCBC), and replace it with a new body. As per reports, a new caste is likely to be added to the OBC section. The reformed body would be constitutionally accepted and a special amendment shall be made in the constitution for the same. The new body, whose name is yet to be decided, is specially being formed keeping in mind the demands of Jats and would make them eligible for affirmative action benefits. The Jat Reservation Agitation was a series of protests in February 2016 by Jats of North India, especially Haryana. The protests crippled the state for about 10 days. Besides Haryana, neighbouring states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the National Capital Region were highly affected. Recently, the Jat agitators had planned a massive protest at Jantar Mantar in the national capital, but the protest was later called-off after the protest leaders had a meeting with Haryana Chief Minister.