J-K BJP opposes CM’s remarks on SKIMS autonomy, Dec 05 holiday

Srinagar, Dec 05: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Jammu & Kashmir Unit on Thursday strongly criticized chief minister Omar Abdullah for advocating autonomy for Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), and demand for reinstating December 05 holiday.

BJP J&K General Secretary (Organization) Ashok Koul said the demands put forth by chief minister Omar Abdullah are steps towards reviving the political atmosphere of the 1990’s when terrrosim was at its peak.

Koul while talking to KINS, dismissed the necessity of granting autonomy to SKIMS, suggesting that the institute is already functioning well under the current administrative structure.

Reflecting on its condition up to the year 2000, the BJP leader alleged that the institute had become an ‘epicenter of militancy’, with even some employees reportedly involved in such activities.

He said that SKIMS has been streamlined and transformed into a reputable healthcare institution serving people from every corner of Jammu and Kashmir.

He expressed concern over any move to restore the institute’s autonomy, suggesting that it could potentially revert SKIMS to its problematic past.

He highlighted the critical role SKIMS now plays in providing treatment to thousands across the region and cautioned against decisions that might jeopardize this progress.

About another demand by the National Conference about reinstating a holiday on December 05, the anniversary of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, Koul commented that “There are enough holidays in the calendar, so there is no need to add more.”

Earlier in the day, Advisor to CM, Nasir Aslam Wani had stated the council of ministers had sent a proposal to Lieutenant Governor’s Office demanding restoration of holiday on December 05.