JKBOSE Exam Form Row: Political Parties Allege Bias, Board Denies

Political parties in Kashmir allege that authorities are not accepting class 10 examination forms from students of private schools established on state land, a charge denied by the J-K Board of School Education.

Political parties in Kashmir have accused authorities of refusing to accept class 10 examination forms from students of private schools established on state land. However, the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has denied these allegations.

JKBOSE Chairman Clarifies

JKBOSE Chairman Parikshat Singh Manhas refuted the claims, stating that examination forms are not being rejected and every student will be allowed to sit for the exams. He urged students to focus on their studies and not panic, assuring that all forms will be accepted after due process.

Political Parties Express Concern

Former chief minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti expressed deep concern over the alleged refusal to accept exam forms, questioning the fairness and motives of the Board. She highlighted that disregarding a high court stay order raises serious concerns and could jeopardize the future of countless students.

NC Spokesperson Raises Questions

National Conference spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar criticized the move, stating that it sparked concerns and raised questions about the Board's actions. He pointed out that the decision defies a high court order issued last year in reference to a government directive from the previous year.

Background of the Issue

In 2022, the Jammu and Kashmir administration amended the rules under the Education Act, 2002, to provide fresh guidelines for the use of land and building structures by private schools in the Union Territory. It ordered the closure of private schools established on state land and directed them to issue school leaving certificates to students for accommodation in government schools with parental consent.

Private Schools Seek Legal Relief

Private school proprietors collectively sought relief from the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, where they secured a stay on the government's order.

Academic Aspirations at Stake

Citing the media report, Dar emphasized that JKBOSE's refusal to accept examination forms from students of private schools on state land jeopardizes the academic aspirations of thousands of students. He urged the government to take prompt action to ensure the academic well-being of these students and called on the LG administration to intervene for a resolution in the best interests of the students.

CPIM Leader Calls for Revocation

Senior CPIM leader M Y Tarigami also joined the chorus of voices calling for the revocation of the decision. He termed it a flagrant disregard for the high court's stay order and warned that the decision could put the future of thousands of students at risk. He appealed to JKBOSE to withdraw the order forthwith.

The controversy surrounding the acceptance of examination forms from students of private schools on state land in Kashmir has raised concerns among political parties and education stakeholders. While JKBOSE denies the allegations of rejection, the issue highlights the need for clarity and adherence to legal guidelines to ensure the academic well-being of students.