This refers to the debate in Greater Kashmir regarding politicization of examination papers. I appreciate the paper for giving space to all the viewpoints pertaining to the issue. What disturbed me is that Junaid Azim Mattu has criticized the “politicization” of academics. I don't agree that Dr. Noor Muhamamd Bhat’s paper can be an attempt to `politicize' academics. There is nothing wrong in asking students to comment on stone pelting. Earlier we had a strong debate in GK about the issue wherein some expressed their opinion in its favour and some against it. Why do we presume that students would have written yes to the issue. And even if they did so, that would have been their own opinion. Police cannot strangulate the opinion of people. Teachers are the builders of nation. And when they are harassed this way, it indicates that there is something dangerously wrong in the system we are in. We must encourage free speech and expression. Police has a role in certain cases, but not when it comes to academics. It must allow teachers to do their job. At the same time, our young writers must not forget the situation we are in. Let's not be reckless while criticizing.

Showkat Ahmad Wani
Student
New Delhi

Lastupdate on : Mon, 27 Dec 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 IST