Srinagar, June 24,: Jammu and Kashmir’s Social Welfare Minister Sakina Itoo Tuesday voiced strong opposition to the rule that ties financial assistance for marriage to a girl’s educational background. She assured that the government will soon review the order that made passing the 8th standard a prerequisite for receiving marriage aid.
Speaking to reporters, the minister stressed that marriage is a personal and sacred matter and should never be linked to someone’s academic achievements. “A rule like this creates unnecessary hurdles for underprivileged girls. We objected to it when it was introduced, and we still believe it goes against the spirit of welfare,” Itoo said.
The contentious rule, introduced two years ago under the LG-led administration, required girls to have passed the 8th standard in order to be eligible for financial support from the government’s marriage assistance scheme.
Sakina Itoo said that the brunt of such restrictions is borne by families already battling poverty. “The aim of our welfare schemes is to provide dignity, not discrimination. Linking education to marriage aid is unfair to the most vulnerable,” she said, adding that the policy was out of step with the government’s commitment to social equity.
She recalled that the scheme, initially offering Rs. 50,000 in aid, was later increased to Rs. 75,000 when Omar Abdullah became Chief Minister, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on economically weaker sections. “We know what struggles poor families go through during marriage season. We want to stand by them, not set obstacles,” the minister added.
Assuring action, Sakina Itoo confirmed that the Social Welfare Department will soon re-examine the order. “We are working to remove any unjust clauses. Our focus is to ensure that every deserving girl, regardless of her schooling, can marry with dignity and that no family feels abandoned,” she said. [KNT]
