NLU: Time to address Pir Panjal’s wounds

SAJJAD IQBAL
Sajjadiqbal107@gmail.com

The Pir Panjal region has long been neglected in terms of development and infrastructure. Despite being a border area and prone to war and shelling, the region has not received its due share of attention from the government. The lack of national-level institutions in the region is a stark reminder of the neglect faced by the people of Pir Panjal.

Jammu and its adjoining district has been blessed with an array of major institutions, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), and Government Medical College (GMC), among others. Similarly, the Kashmir division has its fair share of prestigious institutions. However, when it comes to the Pir Panjal region, there is a silence. The region has been left behind, with no national-level institution to its name.

The people of Pir Panjal have suffered immensely due to the region’s proximity to the border. The constant shelling and war have taken a toll on the lives of the people, making it challenging to access basic amenities like education and healthcare. Despite this, the region has not received the attention it deserves. The lack of infrastructure, including roads, schools, and to the lack of national-level institutions, has further exacerbated the situation.

It is high time that the government takes cognizance of the neglect faced by the Pir Panjal region. The region deserves equal attention and development. The people of Pir Panjal are not asking for favour, but for justice. It is imperative that the government establishes national-level institutions in the region, providing opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

The government must take immediate action to address the neglect faced by the Pir Panjal region. Establishing national-level institutions such as National Law University would be a significant step in this direction. It is also essential to invest in infrastructure development, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The people of Pir Panjal deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government to provide it to them.

The region’s rugged terrain and remote locations make it challenging for students to access quality education, forcing many to migrate to other parts of the country in search of better opportunities. It is worth noting that the Pir Panjal region has historically been neglected in terms of development, with no national-level institution established in the region.

Rajouri’s unique location makes it an ideal hub for the NLU. Situated at the center of the Jammu and Kashmir division, with equal distance from Jammu and Srinagar, Rajouri ensures easy accessibility for students from both regions. The district’s relatively peaceful environment and scenic beauty also make it an attractive location for students seeking a conducive learning environment. Establishing an NLU in Rajouri would fill a significant gap in the region’s educational infrastructure, providing opportunities for students from the Pir Panjal region. The establishment of an NLU would attract students, faculty, and staff, stimulating local economic growth. An NLU would foster a culture of legal research and scholarship, contributing to the development of law and policy in the region. The NLU would address the regional imbalance in access to quality education, providing opportunities for students from the Pir Panjal region to pursue legal education.

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir should prioritize the development of the Pir Panjal region, focusing on education and infrastructure. Establishing an NLU in Rajouri would be a significant step in this direction. Political parties should put aside their differences and work together to make this vision a reality. It is imperative that they jointly stress on establishing an NLU in Rajouri, providing a brighter future for the people of the region.

Establishing an NLU in Rajouri requires concerted efforts from the government, academia, and civil society. The process should be expedited, with a clear timeline and adequate resources allocated. The NLU should be designed to cater to the needs of students from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on promoting excellence in legal education and research.

Pir Panjal region has been neglected for far too long. It is time for the government to take action and provide the region with the development and infrastructure it deserves. The people of Pir Panjal will no longer suffer in silence; it is time for justice to be done.
By establishing a National Law University in Rajouri, we can promote balanced development, access to quality education, and economic growth in the region, ultimately contributing to the progress of Jammu and Kashmir.
—— Forwarded Message ——–
From: sajjad Iqbal <sajjadiqbal107@gmail.com>
Date: 1/14/2026 5:48:12 PM