In Tral, Indian-administered Kashmir, the story of 70-year-old shepherd Bashir Ahmed Gujjar reflects the struggles of his nomadic tribal community, deprived of formal education due to poverty and constant movement. However, their fortunes shifted when the government introduced quotas for Scheduled Tribes (STs) in education and employment in 1991, benefiting Gujjars and other marginalized groups.

Now, as the government extends these quotas to include the Paharis, fears arise among Gujjars and Bakarwals that their hard-earned gains will be diluted. The lack of clarity from authorities intensifies concerns, leading to protests and accusations of political manipulation by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The move, seen as a bid to sway the upcoming elections, has ignited tensions and exacerbated existing caste divisions in the region.

While some argue that inclusion benefits a historically neglected community, others perceive it as a strategy to fragment opposition votes. Amidst this political maneuvering, tribal communities fear losing out on opportunities for social and economic advancement, raising questions about the government's intentions and the future of affirmative action in the region.