Reservation committee to submit report before set deadline: Sakeena Itoo

Bandipora : Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday said that a reservation committee, constituted by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is examining all related representations and is expected to submit its report before the scheduled deadline.

Earlier, the 2024 reservation policy has sparked protests in Kashmir, where 69% of the population now competes for just 33% open merit seats.

Itoo while speaking to the media persons during her visit to Bandipora, said a reservation committee has been formed by the Chief Minister to examine the matter.

She said the representations received have already been reviewed, and the committee is expected to submit its report within the given timeframe.

Responding to issues related to the health sector, Itoo said that all doctors, who were earlier attached, have now been detached and sent back to their original postings.

She said there is a shortage of doctors in the region, and added that the government has taken steps to address the issue. “After this government was formed, the Chief Minister ordered the recruitment of 500 doctors, who have now been posted to remote areas,” she said.

Itoo added that while the shortage still exists, the government is working on a proposal to fill the remaining gaps in staffing.

She also said that the process of creation of new posts, which has been under a ban since 2007, is currently being examined. “The government will try to address this issue because there is a need. Where there is shortage, creation must take place. Inshallah, it will be done soon,” she said.

Regarding departmental shortages, the Minister said that any such issues will be verified and appropriate action will be taken. “If the sanctioned post exists at a certain place, the doctor will be sent back there,” she added.

The Minister said that the government is working on all fronts including detachment, recruitment, and post-creation to strengthen the healthcare system in Jammu and Kashmir—(KNO)