Ganderbal, Oct 21 (KNO): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti on Wednesday criticised the National Conference-led government over forestry recruitment rules, alleging that merit was being “criminalised” in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking during her visit to protesting forestry students at SKUAST, Mufti, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), questioned the eligibility of candidates without specialised forestry qualifications for forestry-related posts.
“Forestry students study nearly 80 subjects over four years. How can candidates without a forestry background be considered for these specialised jobs?” she questioned.
She urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Forest Minister Javed Rana to immediately review the recruitment rules and ensure justice for qualified students.
The PDP leader also alleged that protesting students were being pressured to vacate their hostels and warned of joining their agitation if they were evicted.
“These students are not begging for jobs. They are demanding recognition of their hard work and equal employment opportunities,” she said, adding that their future must not be compromised—(KNO)