BJP Seeks Cancellation of Muslim Students’ Admissions in J&K College
Party opposes inclusion of 42 Muslim candidates in Vaishno Devi Medical College’s first batch
- BJP submits memorandum to Lt Governor opposing admissions
- Party says only students with “faith in Mata Vaishno Devi” should study in the college
- College followed NEET-based merit and NMC guidelines, officials confirm
- Opposition hits out at BJP for “communalising medical science”
GG News Bureau
Jammu, 23rd Nov: A political controversy has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir after the local unit of the BJP strongly opposed the admission of Muslim students to Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College in Katra. The party has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to cancel the admissions immediately.
A BJP delegation led by Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma met the Lt Governor, raising objections over 42 Muslim students forming the majority of the first batch at the institution. Sharma claimed that only students with “faith in Mata Vaishno Devi” should be granted admission, asserting that public sentiments must be respected.
The matter was first highlighted by right-wing groups, despite the college following National Medical Council rules and NEET-based merit for its 50 seats, 85% of which are reserved for J&K domiciles. Official sources clarified that the Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence is not a minority institution and admissions were conducted as per national guidelines.
Data shows only eight Hindu students from Jammu have joined the inaugural batch.
Reacting sharply, J&K Peoples’ Conference leader Sajjad Lone accused the BJP of dragging religion into professional education. In a statement posted on X, he said India needs competent doctors selected through fair exams like NEET, not “religious zealots”.
The controversy continues to intensify, even as the Shrine Board, chaired by the Lt Governor, considers the BJP’s demands.
