Protests against New recruitment policy NC engineering divide in students’ Agitation

 Government has succeeded in ripping apart the student leadership of Jammu which was pioneering the agitation against the new recruitment policy proposed by the state government, which has been stayed by the State High Court.

A student leader who was leading vehement protests against the recruitment policy terming it as draconian, is now calling it youth friendly after he was roped in by the ruling national conference as an office bearer in the party.  Jammu University Research Executive Association (JURSEA) President, Rakesh Chib joined National Conference (NC) as President of National Conference Students Union for Jammu Province (NCSU).

The incident has added another page in the sordid political saga of Jammu, wherein leaders have switched loyalties and betrayed their cause to make short term gains.

Rakesh, who opposed new recruitment policy of government few days back by organizing protests in various places in the city of temples is now advocating the policy, after ruling national conference offered him a party post. By silencing Chib, the government made a successful bid in weakening the agitation which was threatening to attain enormous proportions.

Past few days have witnessed massive protests and rallies in educational institutions including Jammu University and various degree colleges of city. The protests had spilled over to the other districts of the region as well.

 National Conference has been known for dividing students’ movements by giving party positions to young leaders who wants to establish their political career by joining any mainstream political party. Physiotherapists’ movement, Dental College agitation and recent protests over Jammu Central University were weakened by adopting similar tactics.

Speaking to Kashmir Images President ABVP State Unit, Suresh Mangotra criticized Rakesh for joining a political party against which crucial agitation is being carried forward.  “It is his own decision, we shall ensure that government does not succeed in weakening the agitation by such moves” he added.

Vikas Sharma, President National Secular Forum (NSF) also expressed his displeasure over the move of JURSEA president. “We shall strengthen the movement further” he said  

Rebutting all the allegations leveled against him over the issue, Rakesh said that he was interested to join a political party from past few years and the policies and initiatives taken by Omar Abdullah had fascinated him and impelled him to join NC. “Those who blame me for favors, money and government job should introspect themselves first”, said Rakesh.   

While speaking to National Panthers Party Youth President Pushpinder Singh Manhas said, “it is unfortunate and shocking for us.”

Kashmirimagesjammu.com