Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, July 11: Cabinet Minister for Education, Health and Medical Education, and Social Welfare Sakeena Itoo today hit out at political opponents for criticising the National Conference (NC)-led Government, saying those questioning the Government over the non-restoration of the July 13 holiday have already been “rejected by the people.”
Speaking after paying tribute to Madr-e-Meharban on her 25th death anniversary, Itoo said, “Those criticising us have nothing else to do. From 2014 till now, they have caused immense destruction. We are working to undo that damage. The public has reposed faith in us, while they have rejected those who only know how to blame.”
Her remarks came in response to opposition parties accusing the NC Government of failing to reinstate the July 13 holiday, historically observed to commemorate the 1931 martyrs. Itoo dismissed the criticism as “habitual political rhetoric,” and blamed previous Governments for the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir. “When there was special status, they used to question Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah. Today, when the region is in crisis, it is they who are responsible,” she said, without naming any particular party.
Praising the legacy of Madr-e-Meharban, Itoo highlighted her contributions to women’s education, healthcare, and social welfare in Jammu and Kashmir. “She represented women in Parliament at a time when there was hardly any access to education for women. Her role in uplifting the female population was unmatched,” she said. She added, “We are trying to follow in her footsteps.”
Itoo said that the NC Government is committed to addressing key issues, including land and job protection, and the restoration of Statehood and special status. “People have given us the responsibility to serve. That is what we are focused on,” she said.
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