Sakina Itoo Slams BJP for ‘Misleading’ Public on Law University Demand

Jammu, Feb 19: Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Thursday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of misleading people in Jammu by raising the demand for a law university, calling it a diversionary tactic rather than a genuine concern for students.

Speaking outside the Legislative Assembly, the National Conference leader contrasted the BJP’s election-time assurances with its present stance. She said promises of employment opportunities, direct financial benefits, and leadership claims made during the campaign have not materialised.

Amid the ongoing debate on establishing a law university in the region, Itoo described the opposition’s push as politically motivated. She questioned why the location of such an institution should become contentious, arguing that students from any part of Jammu and Kashmir can pursue education wherever facilities are created.

Emphasising regional unity, the minister said educational infrastructure should serve all communities equally, regardless of geography. She also referred to a recent dispute involving students at Vaishno Devi College, asserting that the government acted responsibly to protect their academic future.

Itoo further alleged inconsistency in the opposition’s approach to equality and inclusion, raising concerns about how students from different backgrounds would be treated if institutions were established in specific areas.

On law and order, she pointed out that policing falls under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor and claimed that those seeking their rights often face forceful action. The minister maintained that development initiatives must remain focused on fairness and access rather than political narratives.