SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Sunday expressed its gratitude to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakina Itoo for their swift and decisive action in addressing concerns raised over the controversial directive that compelled students to participate in the ABVP’s Tiranga rally and the deputation of officials for the Kabaddi event organized by ABVP.
In a statement issued here, the National Convenor of the Association, Nasir Khuehami, said, “We deeply appreciate the Chief Minister’s intervention in promptly withdrawing these orders and taking immediate steps to ensure that educational institutions remain neutral spaces. This course correction is a positive development, and we welcome it. Within hours of the strong objection raised by the Association regarding the misuse of government machinery for an ABVP event in Doda, both directives were withdrawn.”
He asserted, “Education should serve as a platform for fostering critical thinking, empowerment, and independence, rather than being exploited for political agendas. We are grateful for the government’s assurance that students must have the freedom to make their own political choices without any undue pressure or coercion.”
Khuehami added, “We hope this action sets a precedent for the future, reinforcing the importance of democracy, neutrality, and individual rights in educational institutions across Kashmir. It is essential that these values are upheld consistently, ensuring that students are allowed to grow and express themselves freely, without any interference from external forces.”
National Spokesperson of the Association, Farhat Riyaz urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to initiate an immediate investigation to identify who authorized these actions and under whose direction they were carried out. “It is crucial that the impartiality of government institutions is safeguarded to preserve public confidence in their fairness and integrity,” he said.
“While we firmly support the celebration of Republic Day and respect the importance of sports events, we categorically reject any attempt to dictate student participation in a rally affiliated with a particular political organization. The deputation of officials for an event organized by a political party is equally unacceptable. Public institutions must not be used to further private or partisan interests. Education must remain free from coercion, external influence, and political manipulation, allowing students the autonomy to decide whether or not to engage in any political activity,” Farhat added.