Modi Visits Kashmir for the First Time During His 2nd Term

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced his rally in Kashmir via Twitter, marking his first visit to the region in five years. Today marked Modi’s first visit to Kashmir since the controversial abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. During that time, internet services were cut off, businesses shuttered, and students were left without academic support. The 550 days following the abrogation felt like a regression to the Middle Ages for Kashmir, with limited connectivity and an economic downturn in the region.

The historic visit of Modi to Kashmir on Thursaday was greeted with stringent security measures throughout the state. As a result, businesses were forced to close, schools shut down, and examinations were postponed, leading to widespread confusion among the population.

Although the board did not explicitly state the reasons for the postponement, the escalated security measures strongly implied a few that may have influenced this decision. Surveillance efforts have been significantly enhanced with the deployment of drones, CCTV cameras, and increased foot patrols by security forces within a two-kilometer radius of the venue.

The rally, which commenced at 12:30 PM and concluded at 2:00 PM, was attended by several dignitaries, including the Honourable Lieutenant Governor, Shri. Manoj Sinha, and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh.

In his address at the rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his dedication to winning the hearts of the people. He also announced several development projects, collectively valued at over Rs 6,400 crore, under the ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ initiative ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Exams Postponed

Additionally, the University of Kashmir and Central University of Kashmir have jointly decided to postpone all examinations scheduled for March 7th (Thursday). The Assistant Controller of Examinations at KU announced the postponement of all university exams slated for March 7, 2024.

“Even amidst heightened security measures, school buses must be allowed to operate. Education should never be compromised for our students.”

G.N Var

The rescheduling of board examinations has caused confusion among school students. Originally scheduled from the 5th of March to the 2nd of April, the 8th-grade exams will now commence on the 13th of March and conclude on the 2nd of April. “We now have fewer days to prepare between exams, and I’m particularly worried about my mathematics paper,” expressed a student from the 8th grade.

Expert Insights

Foej conversed with G.N. Var, the president of the Private Schools Association, regarding his apprehensions about the closure of private schools along Airport Road. Var highlighted that despite schools having a standard of 180-220 working days, frequent political disruptions have impeded their ability to adhere to the curriculum, leading to syllabus incompleteness. “Education should remain apolitical, devoid of political interference. Unfortunately, schools are being repurposed for administrative activities, disrupting our educational calendar,” Var emphasized.

While expressing his concerns about recent developments in the education system in Kashmir, Var highlighted the drawbacks of the recent change in the academic calendar. Previously, examinations were held in October, but they are now scheduled for March. Traditionally, academic sessions began in November, allowing students to study during the winter break and start the new year fresh.

Var expressed, “While the concept of a unified academic schedule across the nation is commendable, it’s not practical in Kashmir due to logistical reasons. We can adjust schedules, but we can’t change the weather. Students are left in confusion during the three-month winter holiday as they already completed their syllabus for the previous session and don’t know how to utilize those 100 days effectively.”

As per the Private Schools Association J&K, more than 30 schools closed, depriving thousands of children of school hours, even after more than 100 days of vacation. 

When questioned about potential alternatives given the government’s security concerns, he emphasized, “Even amidst heightened security measures, school buses must be allowed to operate. Education should never be compromised for our students.” However, Var opts optimism, hoping that the Prime Minister’s visit will bring positive changes within the education system of the Kashmir Valley.

Who Joined the rally?

Omar Abdullah posted on X, “Employees, men & women both, in their 1000s are being asked to assemble between 4:30 AM & 5:30 AM in the freezing temperatures to be bused to the venue. This participation isn’t optional, it’s compulsory. Employees who don’t show up are been threatened with disciplinary action by their Dept heads”.

“Private schools like DPS Etc have had their buses commandeered to transport all these employees to the venue”, he added.

Additionally, a significant number of government teachers and employees have been requested to attend the rally, leading to criticism aimed at the center. “I observed numerous buses transporting people towards Rajbagh yesterday,” mentioned a government employee. Although he himself was not invited to the rally, many of his colleagues were instructed to participate. Several engineers were also tasked with remaining at the event location overnight to ensure all necessities, especially electricity, were provided.

Foej spoke with a BJP worker who preferred not to disclose his name. He mentioned that approximately one lakh people attended the rally, hailing from various districts of Kashmir. He indicated that employees from diverse departments were mobilized for the rally, including Anganwadi centers, the Jal Shakti (PHE) department, Asha Workers, Farmers, Block departments, government teachers, panchayat members, and Sarpanchs.