Hits out at Sangharsh Samiti protests; slams BJP’s “divisive” call for separate Jammu state; says education and sports being communalised; urges Centre to shift students from politically “tainted” medical college and shut down the college
Nadeem Nadu
Srinagar, Jan 6 :
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that students admitted to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) University have qualified purely on merit and not through any political favour, responding sharply to protests by the Sangharsh Samiti.
Speaking to media persons in Jammu, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, Omar said those questioning the admissions were insulting the efforts of hard-working students. “Those children worked hard to get a seat. No one did them any favour neither me nor the university. They passed the exam and got admission on merit,” he said.
He questioned the basis of renewed protests by the Sangharsh Samiti over MBBS admissions, saying the controversy was being fuelled for political purposes. “If they don’t want to study there, the Government of India and Ministry of Health should adjust them elsewhere. Close that medical college it’s not worth running if politics is being done over it. We will make arrangements for these students in other government medical colleges,” Omar said, adding that education must not be sacrificed for political agendas.
Reacting to BJP leader Shyamlal Karma’s demand for Jammu to be made a separate state, Omar said the party’s divisive politics had “failed.” “When they reorganised Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, why didn’t they make Jammu a separate state then? Now suddenly they remember it because their politics has failed. Why spoil Jammu on religious lines?” he asked.
He accused the BJP of trying to “destroy the unity” of Jammu and Kashmir. “On one hand, they say they care for the people of J&K; on the other, they’re busy tearing it apart,” he remarked.
On the issue of reservation, the Chief Minister said his government had already fulfilled its responsibility. “The Cabinet Sub-Committee made its report, the Cabinet approved it, and the decision has been sent to Raj Bhawan. Now it’s up to the Lieutenant Governor to approve it,” he said.
Earlier in the interaction, Omar said the government’s focus was on preparing for the upcoming Budget Session scheduled to begin on February 2 and on ensuring a successful tourism season starting March-April. “We are prepared for every challenge,” he said.
Chief Minister also condemned attempts to mix religion with sports, education and even food habits. “When we look at a team, we see the game. But they see the religion of the players,” he said, referring to critics who objected to the religious composition of sports teams. “When there were more Muslims in the football team, they objected. When the number reduced in cricket, they stayed silent. They bring religion into everything — education, sports, even food,” he added.
Omar also commented on the recent IPL controversy in which a Bangladeshi player was reportedly sent back. “I agree our relations with Pakistan are strained, but what did Bangladesh do to us? Our ties with them were always good,” he said.
He said such decisions could harm India’s image and relations in the region. “Neither did this player want to leave, nor did his team want to send him. Pressure came from above. What is his fault? By sending him out, will our relations with Bangladesh improve? They’ll only get worse,” Omar remarked, urging for “sports to remain free of politics.” (KNC)