SAJJAD IQBAL
The Pir Panjal region has long been neglected in terms of development and infrastructure. Despite being a border area, prone to war and shelling, the region has not received its due share of attention from the government. The absence of national-level institutions in the region is a stark reminder of the neglect faced by the people of Pir Panjal.
Jammu and its adjoining districts have been blessed with an array of major institutions, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), and Government Medical College (GMC), among others. Similarly, the Kashmir division has its fair share of prestigious institutions. However, when it comes to the Pir Panjal region, there is silence. The region has been left behind, with no national-level institution to its name.
The people of Pir Panjal have suffered immensely due to the region’s proximity to the border. Constant shelling and conflict have taken a toll on their lives, making it challenging to access basic amenities such as education and healthcare. Despite this, the region has not received the attention it deserves. The lack of infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, along with the absence of national-level institutions, has further worsened the situation.
It is high time that the government takes cognisance of the neglect faced by the Pir Panjal region. The region deserves equal attention and development. The people of Pir Panjal are not asking for favours, but for justice. It is imperative that the government establishes national-level institutions in the region, providing opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
The government must take immediate action to address this long-standing neglect. Establishing national-level institutions such as a National Law University (NLU) would be a significant step in this direction. It is equally important to invest in infrastructure development, including roads, schools, and healthcare services. The people of Pir Panjal deserve better, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure their progress.
The region’s rugged terrain and remote locations make it difficult for students to access quality education, forcing many to migrate to other parts of the country in search of better opportunities. It is worth noting that Pir Panjal has historically been overlooked in terms of development, with no major national institution established there.
Rajouri’s unique location makes it an ideal hub for an NLU. Situated at the centre of the Jammu and Kashmir region, and at an almost equal distance from Jammu and Srinagar, Rajouri ensures easy accessibility for students from both divisions. The district’s relatively peaceful environment and scenic beauty also make it an attractive destination for students seeking a conducive learning atmosphere.
Establishing an NLU in Rajouri would fill a major gap in the region’s educational infrastructure and provide opportunities for students from the Pir Panjal belt. It would attract students, faculty, and staff, thereby stimulating local economic growth. An NLU would foster a culture of legal research and scholarship, contributing to the development of law and policy in the region. Most importantly, it would address the regional imbalance in access to quality education.
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir should prioritise the development of the Pir Panjal region, focusing on education and infrastructure. Establishing an NLU in Rajouri would be a landmark step towards balanced development. Political parties must put aside their differences and work together to make this vision a reality. It is imperative that they jointly emphasise the establishment of an NLU in Rajouri, ensuring a brighter future for the people of the region.
Establishing an NLU in Rajouri will require concerted efforts from the government, academia, and civil society. The process should be expedited with a clear timeline and adequate resources. The university should be designed to cater to students from diverse backgrounds, with a strong focus on excellence in legal education and research.
The Pir Panjal region has been neglected for far too long. The time has come for the government to act and provide the region with the development and infrastructure it rightfully deserves. The people of Pir Panjal will no longer suffer in silence; justice must be done.
By establishing a National Law University in Rajouri, we can promote balanced development, expand access to quality education, and boost economic growth in the region—ultimately contributing to the overall progress of Jammu and Kashmir.