Jammu Kashmir
SMVD medical college row: Mehbooba Mufti questions CM Omar’s remarks ahead of NMC order
Addressing reporters, Mehbooba said a “premature hint” by the Chief Minister about the possible closure of the medical college appeared to be an attempt to normalise the decision. “A day earlier, Omar sahib said the medical college should be closed, and the very next day the NMC issued its order,” she said.
Mufti said the withdrawal of the Letter of Permission (LoP) raised serious concerns amid ongoing rumours about the division of Jammu and Kashmir. She added that the decision goes beyond a single institution and could set a precedent, citing past experiences where similar steps in J&K were later replicated elsewhere in the country.
Calling the issue sensitive, she said the government must ensure proper adjustment of the affected students, who secured admission after clearing the NEET examination. She also voiced concern over the future of Muslim-majority youth in J&K, questioning what opportunities would remain for them if such institutions were closed.
The PDP chief noted that lakhs of Kashmiri students are studying across India and warned that decisions taken under pressure could embolden right-wing and communal elements in other states to raise similar demands. “Who will stop them then?” she asked.
Mehbooba Mufti said the Chief Minister should have firmly opposed the withdrawal of permission with the Centre to safeguard the interests of students and the region.
