Jammu, Feb 19: National Conference (NC) leader and Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo accused BJP of misleading the people of Jammu with hollow promises during the assembly elections.
Speaking outside the Legislative Assembly, the Minister for Education pointed out the disparity between the BJP’s electoral rhetoric and its current actions.
“Before the elections, they promised the people here jobs and ₹10 lakh in their bank accounts. They spoke about having a Hindu Chief Minister. Today, they have nothing to say,” Itoo said.
Her comments come amid an ongoing political debate regarding the establishment of a law university in the region. The minister dismissed the opposition’s demand as a mere political gimmick to distract the public.
“Now they think they can pacify the people by demanding a law university. But the people are sensible; they understand these tactics. What is special about a law university? It could be set up in Kashmir, Baramulla, Kupwara, or Anantnag. Students from Jammu will travel there to study. Why is it an issue now?” she questioned.
Minister Itoo referenced a recent controversy involving students at Vaishno Devi College to underscore what she termed as the BJP’s “double standards.”
“Look at how they treated the 50 students at Vaishno Devi College. If the government and CM Omar Abdullah were not serious about securing their admissions, what would have happened to their future? They didn’t ruin those 50 students. Now, if Muslim students come to study at a law university in Jammu, will they face the same treatment?” she asked.
Minister Itoo stated, “Jammu and Kashmir are one. Whether the university is in Kashmir or Baramulla, students from Jammu will go there. They keep talking about equality. Where is the equality in their actions?”
The Education Minister also took aim at the law-and-order machinery, which operates directly under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor (LG). She alleged that the administration uses force against people demanding their rights.
“We don’t have control over the police; they are under the LG. It is they who get people beaten up. The people are asking for their rights, and they are met with batons,” Itoo added.
