In a heartfelt and determined show of solidarity, socio-political activist Mehran Anjum Mir, joined by National Students' Union of India (NSUI) J&K President Ajay Lakhotra and hundreds of Jammu and Kashmir Police Constable and Sub Inspector aspirants, led a candle march today from Jammu University to Dogra Chowk, Jammu, urging the government to address the pressing issue of age relaxation in recruitment.
This peaceful demonstration highlighted the aspirants' prolonged struggle, which has been exacerbated by recruitment delays by the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) over the past 8 (eight) years.During the procession, Mehran Anjum Mir spoke passionately about the hardships faced by the aspirants.
He pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic had further complicated these challenges, with other states and Union Territories across the country already offering age relaxations to their youth. “The delay in recruitment has left many young people overage, cutting short their aspirations for government jobs,” Mehran said. “The system’s inertia has left these dedicated individuals feeling helpless despite their unwavering perseverance.”
Supporting the march, Ajay Lakhotra, President of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) J&K, stood shoulder to shoulder with the aspirants. Accompanied by fellow activists, Lakhotra emphasized that the government must prioritize the needs of its youth. “We are here to show our full support. These young people deserve justice, and we will continue to advocate for their rightful demands,” Lakhotra stated.
Mir further expressed his disappointment with the lack of political will to address the issues of unemployment and economic distress. “From the first day of the assembly session, no significant discussions have taken place on youth employment or development. Unemployment has reached an alarming peak, and the rising cost of living makes it nearly impossible for families to manage basic expenses.
This economic pressure is driving youth toward depression and even substance abuse,” he noted, voicing the concerns of many.The candle march was not just a protest but a plea for understanding and change. The aspirants and their supporters urged the government to take immediate action and allow age relaxation, ensuring that those impacted by years of delay are given a fair opportunity.
“We will continue our struggle until justice is served,” Mehran declared. “This is the last chance for thousands of aspirants, and the government must show its commitment to the youth of this region by addressing their grievances without further delay.”The march illuminated not just the streets of Jammu, but the collective hope and resilience of young aspirants who refuse to give up on their dreams.