Bengaluru: ‘JK Scientists’ Forum is extending a helping hand to those affected by trouble in Kashmir valley especially for the students’ community.
JK Scientists helped as many as 60 Kashmiri youths by providing for pocket money, payment of fee and admissions after the Forum offered help.
Riyaz Ahmad Shah, a PhDscholar in Indian Institute of Science (IISC), who is also a core member and coordinator for mentorship says that blockade still continues to be a major cause for worry in many places in Kashmir.
“We are thankful to the authorities of colleges in Karnataka and other places. They have agreed to help these students by extending the deadline for payment of exam and admission fee by one or two months,” Riyaz says.
In Dharwad, the faculty itself came forward to arrange for payment of the fees to the Kashmiri students, he underlined. However, this initiative should not be politicized, he adds.
A separate senior team has been created for the female students of Kashmir. They are quite shy to come out with their problems, he says.
Landlines are working in few areas. Many of them are not working. “My brother calls me from a police station after walking for about 7 to 8 kilometers,” he says.
Kashmiri students, who are doing their masters and graduation courses cannot afford to live without money. Though landlines are open, they are not getting as much money as funds could not be transferred.
The group has helped students of the Lovely Profession University in Punjab and those studying in colleges of Dharwad, Kolar and Bengaluru.
“I have not faced any bitter experience in Bengaluru. I have been here since the last seven years. I never ever faced anything. People here are cooperative,” Riyaz says.
Zameel Khan, a Phd scholar in GKVK explained that the Kashmiris got disconnected suddenly with their parents. Zameel hopes for a revival of communication lines. He says the group helps at different levels. If there is need for pocket money, it is arranged.
If there is an issue regarding admissions, fees, college managements are contacted. Kashmiris in need can contact Riyazulhaq1717@gmail.com or call 7892492029 for help.
