The agitation over MBBS seats at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College, which continued for 45 days, has ended following the National Medical Commission’s decision to withdraw the college’s recognition, but the associated controversy has not fully concluded.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti stated that while the protest over MBBS seats has achieved its objective, its campaign is ongoing. The committee said that after raising its voice against what it described as discrimination against Jammu, its next focus will be on seeking amendments to the constitution of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to prevent any misuse of offerings made by Hindu devotees.
Following the NMC decision, the Sangharsh Samiti and affiliated Hindu organisations held a victory rally in Jammu on Wednesday to mark the outcome of the agitation. Committee members described the decision as a victory against alleged discrimination faced by the Jammu region. Several Hindu organisations, including the Yuva Rajput Sabha and Bajrang Dal, termed the outcome a victory of public sentiment.
Addressing a press conference at Geeta Bhavan Parade in Jammu, Sangharsh Samiti convenor and retired Colonel Sukhveer Singh Mankotia said the 45-day agitation was the result of public support and unity. He claimed that Sanatani organisations and devotees from across the country extended widespread support during the movement.
The Sangharsh Samiti said its next primary demand is an amendment to the constitution of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The committee stated that offerings made by devotees at the temple should be used exclusively for Sanatan Dharma and related activities. It alleged that questions have been raised under the current system regarding transparency and adherence to religious norms in the utilisation of offerings.
Mankotia said the objective is not to oppose any institution or administration, but to protect the faith of crores of devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi and Sanatan traditions. He said amendments to the Shrine Board’s constitution are necessary for this purpose.
The Sangharsh Samiti expressed gratitude to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister JP Nadda for their role in the developments. The committee said that the NMC’s decision to withdraw the medical college’s recognition confirms the irregularities highlighted during the agitation.
Mankotia said there is a “sensitive government” at the Centre that understands religious faith and public sentiment. He described the decision as a victory of justice and said it would help prevent such irregularities in the future. The committee also appealed to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to issue clear directions to the Shrine Board. It demanded that all institutions under the board ensure full respect for Sanatan Dharma traditions, culture and religious values.
The committee said it does not intend to engage only in protest politics but seeks to work in cooperation with the administration to establish a system that does not hurt the sentiments of devotees.
