Srinagar, June 28 (IANS) The Jammu and Kashmir government on Sunday rejected allegations of backdoor appointments levelled against it by opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti.

To clear the air on the controversy, senior ruling National Conference (NC) leaders, Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo, Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar and advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, addressed a joint press conference here.

The government firmly rejected allegations of backdoor recruitment, asserting that all appointments in government departments are being made strictly on the basis of merit and in accordance with established recruitment procedures.

Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo mocked former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks on outsourcing.

“I feel pity for her intelligence,” Sakina said in response to Mehbooba Mufti’s statement that jobs are being filled through outsourcing rather than through the PSC.

She said it is unfortunate that, despite having held such a high position, Mehbooba Mufti remains ignorant about the recruitment process.

Sakina Itoo said that Mehbooba Mufti should understand, become aware, and get educated that outsourcing cannot be considered permanent employment.

Referring to youths engaged through outsourcing, the minister said these youths have been appointed under Centrally sponsored schemes like Samagra Shiksha and Mission Vatsalya (ICPS).

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, clarified that the government has adopted a transparent and merit-based recruitment policy, dismissing claims of backdoor appointments.

He said every recruitment is carried out through the prescribed legal and institutional mechanisms, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity for eligible candidates.

“Attempts are being made to create unnecessary confusion among the public regarding outsourcing. If you look at its origins, the present system is a legacy we inherited. Like several other issues, this outsourcing mechanism dates back to the previous government…” Wani added.

Meanwhile, Minister Itoo stated that outsourcing should not be misconstrued as government recruitment. She explained that outsourcing is a temporary administrative arrangement adopted only to meet immediate operational requirements and does not amount to regular appointments in government service.

The government reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and merit-based recruitment, assuring aspirants that no appointments are being made outside the established legal framework.

Officials maintained that the administration remains focused on ensuring a fair and credible recruitment process across all departments.

–IANS

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