Tribute paid to Wali Mohd Itoo
Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Mar 18 Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo today said the Government’s priority is to restore what she described as the region’s “rights”, including control over land, employment opportunities for youth, and a strong Legislative Assembly where elected representatives can take decisions.
Addressing a gathering in Noorabad in Kulgam district to mark the death anniversary of her father and senior NC leader Wali Muhammad Itoo, the Minister said the administration led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to reversing what she termed the loss of rights and decision-making powers.
She accused unnamed political opponents of attempting to mislead the public. “Some people have once again started shedding crocodile tears. They are coming among you to deceive you. These are the same people who took away our rights and our land,” she said.
The Minister said governance under the current structure remains difficult but expressed hope for change. “Today, it is very difficult to work under this Government structure. However, God willing, I am hopeful that these circumstances will change,” she said.
Reassuring the public, she added: “You do not need to worry. I want to assure you that Sakina Itoo will always stand with you, in both your sorrows and your happiness.”
Responding to the controversy over her recent remarks on teacher qualifications, Itoo said her statements had been misrepresented on social media. “It is unfortunate that some people who have no work sit all day and run social media, presenting things in a distorted manner,” she said.
The Minister said her remarks were meant to highlight gaps in both private and Government education systems. “As far as the education sector is concerned, whether it is a private institution or a Government institution, everyone’s responsibility is to educate children. What we said in the interview was not presented correctly, but broken and shown differently,” she said.
She said both sectors have strengths and shortcomings. “There are private schools where infrastructure is very good and teachers are highly qualified, but there are also government schools with shortcomings. At the same time, there are government schools with highly qualified teachers, and some private schools where teachers are not adequately qualified,” she added.
Itoo stressed that students benefit from both systems. “In both sectors, children are educated and benefit. For me, everything is equal,” she said, adding that she has seen private institutions producing students who have reached high positions.
She also criticised her detractors, saying they were trying to create controversy despite lacking public support. “Some people who have already been rejected politically try to create hype by twisting statements. Nothing will come out of this. People will not vote on such issues,” she said.
Itoo said teachers deserve respect regardless of where they work. “A teacher, wherever they teach, their contribution and respect remain in our hearts. As I said, there are shortcomings in both private and government schools, and we must work to address those gaps,” she said.
Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference remembered party stalwart, Shaheed Wali Muhammad Itoo, on the 32nd anniversary of his martyrdom, paying rich tribute to his enduring legacy and contributions to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Singh Choudhary led senior party functionaries, including Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani in offering floral tribute at DH Pora, Kulgam.
MLAs Hasnain Masoodi, Farooq Shah, Dr. Sajad Shafi Uri, Gh Mohiudin Mir, Abdul Majeed Bhat Larmi, Showkat Hussain Ganai, Peerzada Faroz, Reyaz Ahmad Khan, Choudhary Zafar Khatana, Provincial President Showkat Ahmad Mir, Provincial Secretary Syed Tawqeer, and State Spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar Kulgam were also present on the occasion. The leaders collectively offered prayers and remembered the late leader’s immense contributions.
During the commemorative function, the leaders described Late Itoo as a true champion of the people, highlighting his unwavering dedication to democracy, human dignity, and public welfare. They lauded his selfless sacrifice and his steadfast commitment to moral and ethical values.
The speakers also underscored his visionary leadership, particularly his pioneering work in rural development across South Kashmir, including DH Pora. His initiatives aimed at empowering rural youth, women, and farmers were recalled as transformative steps toward reducing poverty and fostering sustainable development in the region.
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