Srinagar, Aug 04 (KNO): Stating that the recent Jantar Mantar protest in New Delhi sent a clear message to the Centre to restore J&K’s Statehood, Education and Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Tuesday said it reflected the collective resolve of the people to get their snatched rights back.
Speaking to reporters here, Itoo, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the protest, organised under the leadership of National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, went beyond party lines and witnessed participation from people belonging to different sections of society.
“I don’t just call it a successful programme; it was a major step. All political parties represented in the Assembly were invited. When we reached Jantar Mantar, we saw youth, women, elderly people and citizens from different walks of life standing together. It showed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have owned the demand for restoration of statehood,” she said.
Calling the demonstration peaceful, Itoo said it conveyed a clear message that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are waiting for the restoration of their democratic rights.
“The message was simple, we want our rights back and we want the restoration of statehood. People themselves came forward and raised their voice peacefully,” she said.
Replying to a question on the education sector, the minister said the Omar Abdullah-led government has undertaken several reforms over the past 18-19 months to improve the quality of education across Jammu and Kashmir.
“When this government took office, several important posts, including those of principals, Zonal Education Officers and headmasters, were lying vacant. We have worked to fill these gaps and introduce reforms that strengthen the education system,” she said.
Minister Itoo said the government has introduced smart classrooms, upgraded school infrastructure, promoted sports in schools, expanded free education initiatives and brought the Private Universities Bill to strengthen higher education.
“We have ensured transparency, carried out rationalisation, initiated promotions and recruited around 725 assistant professors and lecturers to fill long-pending vacancies. Our aim is to ensure every child receives quality education in a safe and better learning environment,” she said.
The minister said education should remain above politics and the government’s sole focus is to secure the future of children in Jammu and Kashmir.
“There is no politics in education. Our responsibility is to improve the education system and ensure every child gets quality education and feels secure in schools and colleges,” she said.
On regulating private educational institutions, Itoo said the government has adopted a policy of accountability while encouraging institutions performing well.
“If any complaint is received, an enquiry is conducted immediately and action is taken wherever necessary. At the same time, we also acknowledge and encourage private institutions that are doing good work,” she added—(KNO)