Srinagar, Feb 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has written to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu alleging harassment and discrimination against Kashmiri students at a government nursing college in Kurnool, an office-bearer of the association said on Friday.
In its representation, the association claimed that nearly two dozen students from Jammu and Kashmir, many of them enrolled under the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme through AICTE counselling, were facing discrimination over their religious practices during the ongoing month of Ramadan.
The JKSA alleged that the students were denied arrangements for Sehri and Iftar on the campus and were questioned about observing Ramzan while studying in Andhra Pradesh.
JKSA national convenor Nasir Khuehami speaking to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said the students were also barred from bringing outside food to the campus for fasting purposes and were allegedly subjected to verbal remarks.
The association further alleged that some female students were asked to remove their hijab and were discouraged from fasting. It termed the actions a violation of their constitutional rights.
In its letter, the JKSA cited provisions relating to freedom of religion and protection against discrimination, and urged the chief minister to order an impartial inquiry into the matter.
The association also sought directions to the college authorities to ensure that the students are allowed to observe Ramadan and continue their studies without fear of academic action.
There was no immediate response from the college administration or the Andhra Pradesh government to the allegations.
The JKSA expressed hope that the state government would take steps to ensure a conducive academic environment for students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in different parts of the country.
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