A fresh controversy has erupted at the Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Institute of Medical Excellence in Jammu and Kashmir after Sangh-aligned organizations demanded that the recently completed admission process be scrapped. Their demand comes in the wake of reports that nearly 90 percent of the selected MBBS students belong to the Muslim community.
The opposition groups, including local Sangh outfits and some BJP office-bearers, allege that the admissions are “imbalanced” and “unfair.” However, college authorities and health officials maintain that the selection was carried out strictly under government-approved guidelines and merit-based standards.
Why the Controversy Began
The debate intensified after information emerged that an overwhelming majority of the selected candidates belonged to one religious group. This prompted certain organizations to argue that the institute, funded through offerings from the Vaishnodevi shrine, should not have such skewed outcomes.
BJP MLA Ramesh Arora went on record questioning how an institute funded by the revered shrine could have admission results he claimed were “not reflective of the region’s demographics.”
However, senior officials countered the allegations, clarifying that:
Admissions were conducted strictly through the centralized NEET-based counseling system.
The institute is not a minority institution.
Selection is purely merit-based, with no consideration given to religion or caste.
The shrine’s funds do not influence the academic admission criteria.
Officials Defend the Process
A spokesperson for the board overseeing the institute stated that the counseling procedure is transparent and monitored through the Directorate of Medical Education.
They emphasized:
Every student selected met the national merit criteria.
Counseling was automated, standardized, and compliant with national medical admission rules.
There was no scope for manual intervention or bias.
Officials also urged political groups not to "communalize a merit-driven academic process."
Shrine Board’s Position
The Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board clarified that while the institute is funded by the shrine, it functions under medical regulations and national admission systems. The board reiterated that:
No religious reservation exists.
The institute is open to students from all communities.
Scrapping admissions would harm deserving candidates who earned seats legitimately.
Admission Scrapping Demand Gains Attention
Despite official clarifications, Sangh organizations continue to demand that the list be reconsidered or annulled, arguing that a public institution supported by Hindu devotees’ donations must reflect “inclusive representation.”
Political analysts, however, believe the controversy is being amplified in an already tense socio-political environment.
FAQ Section
1. Why are Sangh outfits protesting the admissions?
Because close to 90% of the selected students are Muslim, prompting claims of imbalance. They demand that the admission list be reviewed or scrapped.
2. Did the college violate any guidelines?
Officials say no. Admissions followed NEET merit and national medical counseling rules.
3. Is the Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Medical College a minority institution?
No, it is not a minority institution. It is open to all students, irrespective of religion.
4. Are shrine funds used for managing academic admissions?
Shrine funds support infrastructure and administration, but they do not influence admissions, which are merit-based and centrally managed.
5. Can the admission list legally be scrapped?
Only if proven that the process violated guidelines. Currently, officials insist the process was fair and transparent.
source credit : Arun Sharma
Published on : 20th November
Published by : SARANYA
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