Srinagar, Nov 26 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday questioned the use of religion as a criterion in student admissions at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence.

Referring to statements by the BJP that students from Hindu backgrounds should have primary rights to admission because the institute is funded through donations at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, Abdullah said that “today, education is given the color of religion. Even in medical colleges, it is said that Muslims or non-Hindus should not study here.”

He added, “Now, we will put aside the merits of the children and start making decisions on the basis of religion. Where will the constitution of the country go?”

Abdullah cited Jamia Zia Ul Uloom as an example of merit-based education and constitutional values.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHe said that the institution and its head, Maulana Ghulam Qadir Sahib, had supported the government in maintaining community harmony and had assisted during natural disasters.

He noted that students from the Jamia have succeeded in competitive exams such as UPSC, KAS, and KPS.

He also mentioned his personal connection with the Jamia, tracing it to relationships his grandfather and father had with Maulana Ghulam Qadir Sahib. Abdullah congratulated the Maulanas, faculty, and students of Jamia Zia Ul Uloom

BJP leaders said the rights of students who have already secured admission at the medical institute will be protected.(KNS).