Mehbooba Mufti Demands Merit for Deserving Candidates in IIOJK

“Merit is being killed,” she remarked, adding that deserving candidates are increasingly sidelined.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has voiced strong criticism against the administration in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), accusing it of undermining the merit-based system and ignoring rightful opportunities for deserving individuals.

Speaking to journalists in Srinagar, Mehbooba Mufti expressed concern over the diminishing role of meritocracy in the region. She pointed out that despite the National Conference (NC) securing three Members of Parliament (MPs) and 50 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), critical issues like merit and reservation remain unaddressed.

Mufti highlighted the frustration among students who question the value of hard work when their efforts do not translate into opportunities. “Merit is being killed,” she remarked, adding that deserving candidates are increasingly sidelined.

The PDP leader criticized the NC for failing to deliver on its promises. She noted that more than a year has passed since their MPs were elected, yet not a single representative has raised concerns about the plight of merit-based candidates in the Indian Parliament. This lack of action, she argued, has further disillusioned the people who trusted the NC to uphold justice and fairness.

Mehbooba Mufti called on NC leader Omar Abdullah to take proactive measures to address the issue instead of relying on court interventions. She emphasized the need for immediate reforms to restore meritocracy and ensure justice, particularly by guaranteeing reservations based on population demographics.

Her remarks underscore a growing sentiment of dissatisfaction among IIOJK residents, who feel that their rights and aspirations are being overlooked by both local and central authorities. Mufti’s appeal reflects a broader demand for systemic changes to uphold fairness and provide equal opportunities to all deserving individuals in the region.

As concerns over merit and reservation escalate, the issue is likely to draw further political attention and public scrutiny in the coming months.