Srinagar, July 9: The Jammu & Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) has strongly denounced the recent remarks made by a Member of the Legislative Assembly from Doda, who publicly questioned the academic credentials of the Education Minister, Ms. Sakeena Masood Itoo. The MLA’s comments have sparked widespread outrage among the teaching fraternity, who view the statement as a direct attack on the dignity of democratic institutions.
Mir Bashir Ahmad, UT General Secretary of JKTF and a senior member of the All India Secondary Teachers Federation, condemned the personal jibe, calling it “deeply unfortunate” and unbecoming of an elected representative.
“Questioning someone’s capability based solely on academic degrees reflects not only poor political maturity but also undermines the democratic process and institutional mechanisms that shape education policy,” Mir Bashir said.
He emphasized that education reforms in Jammu and Kashmir, like elsewhere, are the outcome of expert committees, structured frameworks, and long-term planning, not merely individual decision-making. “If the MLA had genuine concerns, he should have used appropriate democratic platforms instead of resorting to public mockery,” he added.
Expressing full solidarity with Education Minister Sakeena Masood Itoo, JKTF said her contributions to the education sector are well-recognized and respected. “Her commitment to upliftment of the education system is well-documented and widely acknowledged. She has consistently led from the front,” the statement read.
“Leadership is not defined by degrees but by one’s vision, dedication, and service to the people,” Mir Bashir further remarked, urging lawmakers to exhibit political maturity and serve as role models, especially for the youth.
Calling for civility in political discourse, the Forum said that respect for constitutional offices is not a matter of choice but a democratic obligation. “Lowering the standard of debate through personal slurs is harmful to the spirit of democratic governance,” JKTF noted, appealing to all public representatives to uphold decorum and focus on constructive engagement.[KNT]
