Lone khalid cni
Srinagar, , CNI: Social Welfare Minister Sakina Masood Itoo on Tuesday said the government will review the controversial rule that makes passing the 8th class mandatory for girls seeking financial assistance for marriage.

Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Itoo said marriage is a personal matter and shouldn’t be tied to education. “We opposed this rule from the start. It unfairly impacts poor families and contradicts the spirit of social welfare,” she said.

The requirement, introduced two years ago under the LG-led administration, has drawn criticism for excluding girls from poor backgrounds who lack formal education. Itoo noted that the scheme was enhanced from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000 during Omar Abdullah’s tenure to help such families, not to restrict them.

“The policy needs to reflect compassion, not conditions,” she said, adding that the department will soon revise the order to remove barriers and ensure dignity for every deserving girl. (CNI)