Merit Over Religion: Controversy Surrounding Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College Admissions

The Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surender Chaudhary, emphasized that admissions to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College are decided purely on merit through NEET, not religion. He criticized political interference, particularly from the BJP and associated organizations, while defending the integrity of the admission process.

The Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surender Chaudhary, affirmed that the admissions process at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College is based strictly on merit achieved through the NEET examination. Chaudhary insisted that educational opportunities for children should transcend religious biases and focus solely on academic merit.

Speaking at an event commemorating the 120th birth anniversary of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, Chaudhary responded to critics claiming politicization of the issue. He underlined that the student admissions were conducted transparently, with meritorious candidates securing their places based on examination scores.

The controversy stems from the selection of students representing various religious backgrounds for the limited MBBS seats, leading to protests from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti. Chaudhary accused the BJP of influencing these protests while questioning their previous inaction when they held governing power in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)