Srinagar, Nov 25: Cabinet Minister Sakeena Itoo on Tuesday said the government is working on the reservation issue in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The matter will be resolved soon, as the sub-committee formed by the Chief Minister has already submitted its report, and it is under process in the Law Department,” she said.
Itoo said the reservation issue has been in the public domain since the formation of the government. Several representatives from different parties had submitted their concerns, which the government examined. “The Chief Minister formed a sub-committee. I am a member along with Satish Sharma and Javid Dar. We held several meetings with the Law Secretary and Social Welfare Secretary and submitted our report within six months,” she said.
The health, education and social welfare minister clarified that after submission, the Law Department raised some queries, which required time to address. “People say it took time, but it did not. The report was submitted two days before the six-month deadline. The queries had to be answered. Everything has been examined. The report has been submitted and is under process,” she said.
On youth concerns and potential agitation, she said, “The youth are intelligent and understand the situation. They are worried about resources, education, and jobs. Drug addiction among youth has risen because of unemployment and the lack of private sector opportunities. Those who have merit will be supported.”
Sakeena advised the youth to stay focused and not be misled by political forces. “Opponents who now raise this issue did not act on it before. Today, they are criticising the government for political purposes. But our young brothers understand the government has formed a sub-committee to handle this issue. It will be brought to the cabinet soon,” she said.
Regarding the Mata Vaishnavi Shrine Board controversy, the minister said, “Politics should not be done on children or religion. Students admitted to the medical university have been selected based on merit. Muslim students study there, and there is no restriction. Doctors treat patients without considering religion.”
Itoo also spoke on her departments, citing work done in health, education, and social welfare. “Hospitals were opened during the COVID-19 without proper equipment or sanctions. Doctors and teachers have been made accountable. Promotions and DPCs have been completed. We appointed 509 doctors who have been sent to hard-to-reach areas,” she said.
The minister said the government continues to focus on youth, education, and healthcare, and is addressing long-standing issues systematically—(KNO)
