Don’t let politics erode merit, talent: CM
Jammu, Dec 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday asked the members of political fraternity not to bring in politics to erode the sanctity of merit or talent in education and sports.
He asserted that education and sports should be kept away from politics.
CM Omar was responding to media queries after the official launch of the Jammu marathon at a ceremony held at Hari Niwas Palace here.
Senior BJP leader and former minister Ajatshatru Singh and veteran actor, model and fitness enthusiast Milind Soman, who is also the brand ambassador of half Jammu marathon event, accompanied the Chief Minister on this occasion.
When asked about the controversy which erupted amid BJP accusation of total neglect of players from Jammu region in selection for J&K team for Santosh trophy, he questioned, “Why is it (controversy) happening? See, if any player has been included in the team on the basis of nepotism or their contacts, then there is no justification for them to be there (in the team). But all these children (players) have been selected on the basis of their talent.”
“I cannot understand why these politicians bring politics into every issue? Children clear the entrance (NEET) exam for admission in medical college and secure seats. A political row has been created there also. Now the children (players), after strenuous efforts and practice, secure their places in the football team – yet again, it is made a political issue,” CM Omar remarked.
He denied that the selection was made without trial. “No. None has restored to such an act. These people (politicians) should not bring in politics. One should resort to politics in political space only. Education and sports should be kept out of the purview of politics,” the Chief Minister said.
“This has been our sincere endeavour to organise such iconic events in Jammu which can attract maximum participation from the people outside J&K. Earlier, we had tried to hold an ultra-marathon at Patnitop to bring into focus its magnificent locale. However, it could not materialise due to the evolving situation this year. So, for the time being, we are organising half marathon at Jammu on March 29, 2026 for which Milind Soman, as the brand ambassador of the upcoming event, has joined us, here today,” he stated, when asked about the significance of programmes like the launch of “Jammu marathon” for tourism promotion in Jammu.
He stated that Soman would come again on March 29 not only for the promotion of the event as its brand ambassador but also for participation in it.
With regard to the Santosh trophy team controversy, earlier, the J&K Minister for Sports Satish Sharma, in a social media post, had assured a time bound and impartial probe.
“I assure all that violation of the merit-based selection policy by anyone will result in severe consequences and appropriate punitive measures,” Sharma said in his post.
Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council had already rubbished the BJP allegations as misleading, stating that 23 players, including four from Jammu, were selected for the J&K football team.
