Srinagar, June 21 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Minister Sakina Itoo on Sunday launched a sharp attack on opposition parties over criticism surrounding outsourcing-related employment issues, asserting that the present government has neither introduced outsourcing nor compromised recruitment procedures, while accusing previous regimes of creating the very system they are now opposing.
Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the International Yoga Day event at SKICC Srinagar, Itoo, as per news agency JKNS, clarified that the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was committed to creating employment opportunities through transparent mechanisms and had consistently raised concerns regarding outsourcing arrangements.
“First of all, I want to make it clear that this government has not created outsourcing. When I visited Delhi, I told the Union Minister that instead of outsourcing, we should be provided funds for creating regular jobs so that youth can get proper employment through a transparent process,” she said.
Responding to allegations that appointments through outsourcing lacked transparency, Itoo said the concept itself was inherited from previous governments and should not be attributed to the present administration.
“As far as outsourcing is concerned, this concept was introduced by those who are criticising us today. They cannot now lecture us on procedures and transparency,” she said.
The Minister accused opposition leaders of attempting to create confusion among unemployed youth and alleged that certain political groups were uncomfortable with any employment opportunities reaching young people.
“Do not destroy the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth. Let them benefit from whatever employment opportunities are available. Those who are criticising us today should first answer questions about the scandals and irregularities that took place during their own tenure,” she said.
Itoo also referred to alleged irregularities in recruitment and financial institutions during previous governments, claiming that those responsible for such practices had no moral authority to question the present administration.
She maintained that if anyone wanted an inquiry into outsourcing-related issues, they were free to seek one.
“We are not afraid of any inquiry. Let there be investigations wherever necessary. But people should not be misled for political purposes,” she said.
The Minister said the government remains focused on addressing the aspirations of the youth despite existing challenges and constraints faced by Jammu and Kashmir after the constitutional changes of 2019.
Referring to educational and examination-related concerns, she said the administration had made all necessary arrangements to facilitate students appearing in competitive examinations, including transport and logistical support wherever required.
“The Education Department has ensured all preparations so that students do not face any inconvenience while appearing in examinations. Our priority is to support the youth and address their concerns,” she said.
Itoo reiterated that the government was committed to transparent governance, employment generation and welfare of the youth, while urging political parties to avoid creating unnecessary controversy over issues concerning young job seekers. (JKNS)
