The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has appealed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah to reconsider the decision to deny government jobs to families of stone pelters in Kashmir, arguing that the policy will worsen existing issues rather than solve them.

In a statement, National Convenor Nasir Khuehami emphasized the need for rehabilitation and unity at this critical time. "Punishing innocent family members for the actions of individuals engaged in unlawful activities is unjustifiable and counterproductive to fostering harmony and inclusivity," Khuehami said.

He highlighted that denying job opportunities to innocent relatives of offenders could prevent their positive integration into society.

Khuehami stressed the principle that individuals should not be punished for the crimes of others, noting that a blanket ban on career prospects would impede the positive transformation of law-abiding family members. He warned that such a policy could perpetuate cycles of alienation and resentment, urging for policies that support rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.

"We should not only welcome those ready to return to the mainstream but also create pathways for future reintegration," Khuehami stated. He called for the recognition and support of those who have reformed, aligning with constitutional values that appreciate positive reformation.

Khuehami concluded by requesting Amit Shah to reconsider policies that deny government jobs to youths with family members involved in law-and-order incidents, advocating for inclusivity and opportunities for rehabilitation to ensure a harmonious and prosperous future for Jammu and Kashmir.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Ministry of External Affairs has responded to concerns raised by the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) regarding the safety of Kashmiri students in Kyrgyzstan.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Nasir Khuehami, the National Convenor of the Association, confirmed that the Ministry assured them of the stability of the situation in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.

The Association had previously urged External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar to evacuate Indian students following reports of mob attacks and violence in Bishkek. However, the Ministry's response, conveyed through a letter, stated that there are no restrictions on transportation or movement of people in the area.

According to the Ministry, Manas International Airport in Bishkek remains accessible to Indian students, with operational air connectivity to India. Direct flights are available from Bishkek, as well as through other cities such as Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, and Tashkent.

Students have been advised to plan their travel for vacations via commercial flights in consultation with their respective university administrations after completing their exams. Already, some students have begun returning to India using commercial flights, as confirmed by Khuehami.

The Indian Embassy in Bishkek is in regular communication with the Association, providing assurance of full support if needed for Kashmiri students.

Expressing gratitude for the Ministry's prompt intervention, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association acknowledged the relief provided to students and their families. They also appreciated the coordination of Bishkek Embassy officials and the Ambassador, who took the issue seriously with Kyrgyz authorities.

Families of students studying in Bishkek and other cities of Kyrgyzstan have expressed satisfaction with the response and intervention, noting that all students are reported to be safe and secure.

This post first appeared on The Kashmir Pulse