Says complaints over alleged medical negligence at Sheikhpora PHC being examined; strict action promised if negligence is established
Srinagar, Oct 14: Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Education and Health & Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Wednesday said parents must have the freedom to purchase school textbooks from any bookseller of their choice, warning private educational institutions against forcing them to buy books from specific shops.
Speaking to reporters, Itoo said no private school should direct parents to purchase textbooks from a particular bookseller, stressing that the decision must rest entirely with the parents.
On private schools prescribing additional books apart from NCERT textbooks, the minister said such books could be allowed if they enhance students’ knowledge and provide educational benefits.
She said around 85 per cent of the syllabi were similar, adding that additional books should not be prescribed merely for financial gains or imposed on students without considering their educational needs and interests.
“If books are imposed simply to collect money, without any benefit to students, such practices will be scrutinised,” she said.
Itoo said the government had decided to constitute a committee comprising representatives of parent associations, private school associations, NGOs, intellectuals and government officers to examine the issue and look into complaints regarding the purchase of schoolbooks.
She said appropriate action would be taken if any complaint was found to be valid.
Responding to a question about complaints regarding the alleged absence of medical staff at Sheikhpora Primary Health Centre (PHC), following the death of a woman, Itoo said the complaint had been received and was being examined.
She said strict action would be taken if it was established that the woman’s death occurred due to medical negligence or failure to provide timely treatment.
The minister added that the government had taken action against doctors in similar cases in the past and would continue to act against those found responsible.
