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J&K CM Backs Merit-Only Admissions at Vaishno Devi Medical College

NC leaders say the university receives annual government grants, countering claims it runs solely on pilgrim donations.

Overview

  • The inaugural MBBS batch admitted 42 Muslim students out of 50, prompting protests from Hindu groups and BJP leaders.
  • Admissions were filled via NEET on merit with 85% of seats reserved for J&K residents, and officials say religion-based quotas are not lawful without minority status.
  • Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reaffirmed that selections are merit-based and said those seeking faith-based preference should first secure minority-institution status through proper channels.
  • A BJP delegation led by Sunil Sharma met Lt Governor Manoj Sinha seeking cancellation of the list and future reservations for devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi.
  • NC spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq cited documents showing ₹24 crore last year and ₹28 crore this year in government grants to argue public funding requires equal access, and no change to the admissions list has been announced.