Shadow Correspondent
Akhnoor, NOV 24:
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti on Tuesday held a press conference at Kameshwar Temple, Akhnoor, raising strong objections over the recent seat allocation at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU)–affiliated Medical College. The committee alleged serious irregularities and demanded immediate intervention from the Lieutenant Governor’s administration. Addressing the media, District Convenor Pawan Gupta and Co-Convenor Mahamandaleshwar Mahant Rameshwar Das claimed that “out of 50 seats in the medical programme, 42 have reportedly been allotted to Muslim students,” stating that since the institution is financially supported by the Shrine Board, concerns among the local community have intensified.
The speakers said that the Shrine Board operates through the offerings of devotees, and therefore, “seat distribution must reflect equitable representation.” They demanded a review of the admission process and urged authorities to reconsider or re-evaluate the allocations made this year.
The Sangharsh Samiti further stated that if minority institutions across the country have certain percentages of seats reserved for their respective communities, “then similar provisions may also be considered for institutions run through Shrine Board resources.” They alleged that the present allocation pattern has created “a sense of imbalance and dissatisfaction among local Hindu students.”
Pawan Gupta informed that the committee has already finalised a broader agitation plan if the administration fails to respond. “We appeal to the Lieutenant Governor to take cognizance at the earliest. If timely action is not initiated, a large-scale protest may erupt in the coming days,” he said.
The speakers claimed that the issue also highlights gaps in the Shrine Board Act, which they say “does not clearly define expenditure guidelines or admissions-related provisions,” calling for clarity to prevent future disputes.
Several prominent citizens, including Brahmin Sabha President Sudesh Malhotra, Ramleela Club President Brijpal Mehta, Shiv Saraf, Tita Langar Shyam Sharma, and representatives of various market committees of Akhnoor, were also present at the press meet and expressed support for the committee’s demand for transparency.
