JAMMU: Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Wednesday criticized the existing verification process for government employees in Jammu and Kashmir and urged the administration to clarify its stance on those dismissed from service during central rule.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly during discussions on budget allocations for departments overseen by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Lone argued that the current police verification process is outdated and needs immediate reform.
“I was appalled to see the kind of questions asked in verification forms. Queries such as ‘Where have you traveled in the last five years?’ or ‘Who are your in-laws?’ have no relevance to an individual’s credibility as an employee,” Lone remarked. “The power to amend these procedures lies with the Chief Minister, and he should take immediate steps to do so.”
Lone also pressed the government for a clear position on employees who were dismissed during the previous administration’s tenure.
“These employees were sacked under BJP rule without being given a fair chance to present their case. Will your government review their terminations? Is there a plan to reinstate them, or at least provide them an opportunity to defend themselves?” he questioned.
Highlighting discrepancies in the issuance of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificates, Lone pointed out that far fewer certificates were being approved in Kashmir compared to Jammu, despite similar economic conditions.
“While per capita income and other economic indicators remain identical across both regions, 27,000 EWS certificates have been issued in Jammu, whereas only 2,700 have been granted in Kashmir. Revenue officials, particularly tehsildars, should be held accountable for these rejections,” he asserted.
Lone also raised concerns about students enrolled in Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT) schools, who are allegedly being barred from appearing in examinations.
“These students are being deprived of their fundamental right to education. I urge the Education Minister and the Chief Minister to intervene and ensure they are allowed to sit for their exams,” he demanded.
Lone’s statements reflect growing concerns over governance, fairness in policy implementation, and the treatment of marginalized communities in Jammu and Kashmir.