Srinagar:The Jammu & Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has sought urgent intervention from Sakina Itoo, the Education Minister following a series of complaints from parents of students studying at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Shahkote in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
In a statement, National President of JKSA Ummar Jamal said the association has received numerous representations from aggrieved parents, highlighting serious concerns about the functioning of the institution. He said the complaints collectively point towards what parents have described as a “deeply unsatisfactory state of affairs” within the school.
According to JKSA, parents have alleged that the quality of academic engagement has deteriorated, with teachers reportedly not providing adequate attention and guidance to students. They further claimed that essential academic resources, particularly textbooks, are not being supplied in a timely manner. “In one instance, books were reportedly not provided to students until as late as June last year, which caused considerable disruption to the academic schedule,” the statement said.
Jamal further noted that students are bearing the brunt of these shortcomings. Parents have expressed concern that several students, who were previously high achievers in their respective batches, have witnessed a noticeable decline in their academic performance. “These students have qualified through a rigorous, merit-based selection process and have earned their place in a premier institution like JNV. They rightfully expect a high standard of education, which, as per the complaints, is presently not being met,” Jamal said.
Jamal also stated that the situation has led to growing distress among both students and their families, with apprehensions about long-term academic setbacks if timely corrective measures are not taken. He underscored that Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas are envisaged as centres of excellence, and any deviation from expected standards raises serious concerns.
Highlighting administrative inaction, JKSA said that parents including one, Mohammad Maqboo, have made repeated attempts to bring these issues to the notice of the school Principal. However, their grievances have not been adequately addressed. “Despite several representations, it appears that my concerns fell on deaf ears,” Mohammad Maqbool said.
He added that ragging has emerged as another serious concern within the institution. He said that such incidents are taking place under the very nose of the Principal, who has failed to take effective steps to curb the menace.
He further stated that another issue aggravating the situation is the frequent change of Principals, often within short intervals, resulting in a lack of continuity in administration and accountability within the institution.
In light of these developments, JKSA has urged the Education Minister Sakina Itoo to take cognizance of the matter and initiate an impartial inquiry into the functioning of the institution. The Association has further called for immediate corrective steps to ensure timely provision of academic resources, improved teacher accountability, and restoration of the academic standards expected from such institutions.
