Jammu: A BJP delegation from Jammu and Kashmir met Union Health Minister JP Nadda and asked for a review of the admission of 42 Muslim MBBS candidates in the first batch of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra. The institute has 50 seats and is run by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
The delegation included J&K BJP President Sat Sharma, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and several MPs and MLAs. They said they were conveying strong resentment from devotees and civil society groups. According to their statement, many devotees believe the current composition of the batch does not reflect their expectations. They said social and religious groups were holding protests and demanding a transparent review of the process.
They told the Minister that the issue had created unrest in the region. They warned that the situation could escalate if the government failed to respond. They said an agitation could grow and disturb peace. The leaders added that the BJP respects the merit based system governing medical admissions. They said the concerns of devotees connected with the shrine should also be recognised.
The delegation asked for greater clarity on how the 50 seats were filled. They asked for mechanisms to reassure devotees who believe they have an emotional stake in the institution. They said a balanced solution would help maintain trust.
Nadda listened to their concerns and assured them that the Ministry would examine the matter. He said all aspects would be reviewed. He said compliance with national medical education norms would be ensured. He said the government would take steps to address the concerns raised.
