Srinagar, Apr 25: A fresh political controversy broke out on Saturday after Education Minister Sakina Itoo hit back at PDP MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra over his “12th pass minister” remark on her qualifications.
Speaking at a function in Baramulla, Sakina said she had completed 10+2 and later joined MBBS, but could not complete the degree due to personal reasons.
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She said politics was never her first choice and that she entered public life only after the death of her father, when family responsibilities came upon her.
“I had never thought I would join politics, but due to difficult circumstances, I had to choose this path,” she said.
She said people supported her despite her lack of experience at the time and credited National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah for guiding her in public life.
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Minister Itoo also raised the issue of gender, saying women in public life often face scrutiny over issues that are not raised in the case of male politicians.
She said several ministers in the past did not face questions over their educational qualifications and added that such criticism was selectively directed. (KNS)
