Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has sought urgent intervention from Education Minister Sakeena Itoo following complaints from parents regarding the functioning of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Shahkote in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
In a statement, JKSA National President Ummar Jamal said the association has received multiple representations from parents alleging serious academic and administrative lapses at the institution.
According to the association, parents have raised concerns about declining academic standards, alleging that students are not receiving adequate attention and guidance from teachers. They also claimed delays in the supply of essential academic materials, including textbooks. “In one instance, books were reportedly not provided until as late as June last year, disrupting the academic schedule,” the statement said.
Jamal noted that several students, including previously high-performing ones, have witnessed a decline in academic performance. He said students who secured admission through a merit-based selection process expect a high standard of education, which, according to the complaints, is not being met.
The association said the situation has caused distress among students and parents, with fears of long-term academic setbacks if corrective measures are not taken promptly. It added that institutions like Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas are meant to function as centres of excellence, and any deviation from expected standards is a matter of concern.
Highlighting alleged administrative inaction, JKSA said parents—including Mohammad Maqbool—have repeatedly raised the issues with the school authorities, but their grievances have not been adequately addressed.
The association also flagged concerns related to ragging, with parents alleging that incidents are occurring without effective intervention from the school administration.
JKSA further pointed to frequent changes in school leadership, stating that repeated transfers of Principals have affected continuity, accountability, and overall institutional functioning.
In view of these concerns, the association has urged the Education Minister to take cognisance of the matter and order an impartial inquiry. It has also called for immediate corrective measures, including timely provision of academic resources, improved teacher accountability, and restoration of expected academic standards at the institution.
