Why is security heightened around the civil secretariat in Jammu?
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Synopsis
Amid escalating protests from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti regarding medical college admissions, security around the civil secretariat in Jammu has been significantly increased. The situation is tense as the group demands action against the admission of non-Hindu candidates, leading to serious implications for public order.
Key Takeaways
- Heightened security around Jammu's civil secretariat due to protests.
- Protests are led by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti.
- Concerns regarding non-Hindu admissions to the medical institute.
- Government asserts admissions are based on merit.
- Police deployed to maintain public order.
Jammu, Jan 6 (NationPress) The security measures surrounding the civil secretariat were significantly enhanced on Tuesday in response to a protest organized by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti (SMVDSS).
The Sangharsh Samiti is voicing its concerns over the admission of non-Hindu students to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence.
This group has called for the cancellation of the admissions process or the closure of the medical institution, indicating intentions to escalate their actions through a signature campaign and a boycott.
Authorities reported that hundreds of police officers, led by senior officials, were stationed outside the Civil Secretariat to avert any potential disturbances.
A police representative stated that no protesters would be permitted to approach the Secretariat area. Leaders of the Sangharsh Samiti have accused the authorities of misusing shrine funds and are seeking intervention from BJP leaders and the Lt Governor.
Right-wing groups have expressed their discontent with the admissions process, framing it as a divisive issue.
The government has firmly asserted that all admissions at the medical college were conducted solely based on merit, without any religious considerations.
Officials have reaffirmed that the selection procedure adheres to the established norms and regulations pertinent to medical admissions.
Authorities have indicated that the situation is stable, with security protocols enacted as a preventive measure to uphold public order in the high-security area.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that the college has exclusively conducted merit-based admissions, emphasizing that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence is not designated as a minority institution, nor should admissions be conducted based on religious affiliations, given that the college receives funding from the J&K government.
Union Minister of State (PMO) Dr Jitendra Singh mentioned to reporters during a public Darbar in Kathua on Monday that the Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, who chairs the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, is well-positioned to address this issue.
Dr Singh expressed optimism that the Lt Governor has initiated efforts to resolve the matter.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain impartial while covering the ongoing protests in Jammu. The situation highlights the delicate balance between community sentiments and the principles of merit-based education. It is essential to foster dialogue and understanding to ensure that all voices are heard while upholding the rule of law and maintaining public order.
NationPress
08/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Jammu?
The protests were initiated by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti in response to the admission of non-Hindu candidates to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence.
What are the demands of the protesters?
The protesters are demanding the cancellation of the admission process or the closure of the medical college, as well as raising concerns about the misuse of shrine funds.
How is the government responding to the protests?
The government has stated that all admissions were conducted based on merit and not on religious grounds, and they are committed to maintaining public order.
What measures have been taken to ensure security?
Hundreds of police personnel have been deployed outside the Civil Secretariat to prevent any law and order issues.
What role does the Lt Governor play in this situation?
The Lt Governor, as the chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, is expected to address the concerns raised by the protesters.
