SRINAGAR: Hazaratbal MLA Salman Ali Sagar has called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to waive the examination form fees for aspiring candidates applying for government posts in Jammu and Kashmir.
Salman criticised the exorbitant fees charged by recruitment agencies, which he said burden job seekers and their families. He argued that such fees are particularly detrimental in a region already grappling with high unemployment.
“It is deeply ironic that government recruitment boards here charge candidates Rs 1,000 for a single post, while in other parts of the country, the fee is as low as Rs 100,” Salman said. He highlighted cases where candidates were charged for posts only to have the advertisements later cancelled without refunds, terming the practice unacceptable.
Salman revealed that he has raised the issue with Education Minister Sakina Yatoo, who assured him of addressing the matter in line with the National Conference’s poll manifesto. “We cannot allow recruitment boards to function as money-minting machines,” he stated.
The MLA urged CM Omar Abdullah to intervene, noting that waiving exam fees would not only alleviate financial strain on candidates but also encourage more youth to pursue government job opportunities.
Amid a prolonged unemployment crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, Salman emphasised the need for immediate reforms in recruitment policies, urging the government to prioritise the welfare of job aspirants. “This small step will provide significant relief to thousands of families and inspire hope among the state’s youth,” he concluded. (KNO)
