Srinagar, June 11, KNT: In yet another controversial move, the Jammu and Kashmir Skill Development Department, formerly Technical Education, is under fire for its latest round of transfers that has sparked allegations of bias and administrative mismanagement.
According to official sources and insiders, several junior-most principals, some lacking technical backgrounds, have been posted to premier institutions, while senior, experienced faculty members have been shifted to distant and less sought-after locations.
The order has triggered serious concerns across the department and among education circles, with many calling the transfer list arbitrary and unfair.
In what is being viewed as a glaring case of favouritism, junior officials have been appointed as heads of prestigious institutions located in Srinagar city. Conversely, senior principals, with decades of experience and technical expertise, are being pushed to peripheral district colleges with limited infrastructure and visibility.
“This is nothing new. The department has been playing favourites for a long time,” said a senior official on condition of anonymity. “What’s shocking is that principals without even a proper technical background are now running elite technical colleges. It’s a mockery of the system.”
The recent reshuffle has also left the post of Registrar vacant, following the transfer of the incumbent to Poonch, adding to the administrative chaos in the department. Critics argue that the absence of a Registrar at such a crucial juncture reflects the department’s lack of planning and foresight.
“There seems to be no regard for merit, experience, or institutional need. Decisions like these can demoralise senior staff and jeopardise the quality of technical education in the region,” said another faculty member, calling the move “a step backwards.”
This isn’t the first time the Skill Development Department has drawn criticism. In past instances as well, similar accusations were levelled over the preference given to juniors for top posts, leaving seasoned officials feeling sidelined.
Insiders say such politically-influenced or non-transparent postings erode institutional integrity and adversely impact the morale of those who have dedicated years to the technical education sector.
