Srinagar, June 24 — In a heartfelt message that resonated with many across Jammu and Kashmir, Social Welfare Minister Sakina Masood Itoo voiced strong opposition to the existing policy that links financial assistance for marriage to educational qualifications.
Speaking to journalists in Srinagar, Minister Itoo said plainly, “Marriage is a sacred and deeply personal journey — it should never be judged by how many years someone spent in school.” Her comments were directed at a rule introduced under the previous administration, which made passing the eighth grade a mandatory condition for girls seeking marriage aid from the government.
“This rule never sat right with us. We opposed it then, and we oppose it now,” she said, firmly and empathetically. According to the Minister, such a condition unfairly impacts young women from economically weaker backgrounds, many of whom are already battling poverty, limited opportunities, and social pressure.
“We believe every girl deserves to begin her married life with dignity — not shame or struggle because of a lack of schooling,” she added. “This rule only adds more burden to families who are already doing their best under tough circumstances.”
Reflecting on the state’s continued efforts to support low-income households, she reminded the public that marriage aid was once Rs. 50,000, and was raised to Rs. 75,000 during Omar Abdullah’s tenure as Chief Minister — a step that showed real intent to help those in need.
Sakina Itoo assured that change is coming. “We are committed to revisiting this policy. The aim is simple — to remove any hurdle that keeps a girl from receiving the support she rightfully deserves,” she said. “It’s not about certificates. It’s about compassion, dignity, and fairness.”
Her statement has sparked renewed hope among families and communities who’ve long felt overlooked by policies that don’t reflect the realities on the ground.
