Merit, not religion or caste, should guide admissions: DyCM

Srinagar, Nov 25: Jammu & Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday said that education must not be divided on religious or caste lines, asserting that admission to institutions like Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University and Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University is strictly based on merit.

“BJP people are making this an issue for no reason. It should not matter which community a student belongs to. The capable child must be encouraged, not discouraged,” he said while speaking to reporterS.

Choudhary stressed that Jammu and Kashmir has always been an example of communal harmony and warned that attempts to communalise education could harm society and future generations.

He also criticised those “trying to remain in limelight” by creating controversies over reservation and electricity issues, saying political figures must maintain responsibility and approach the government through proper forums.

“Government does not run on rumours. We should avoid misleading people,” he added, urging public trust in official statements issued by the administration.

Choudhary emphasized unity, stronger brotherhood, and avoiding polarization in the region, saying elected representatives should strengthen institutions rather than resort to street rhetoric.(KNS)