CM announces National Law University to begin functioning at Ompora Budgam next financial year

KINS Correspondent

Srinagar, Oct 29 (KINS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Wednesday announced that the Jammu and Kashmir National Law University is expected to start functioning from rented accommodation at Ompora in Budgam from the next financial year.

Responding to a bill moved by MLA Nizamuddin Bhat in the Legislative Assembly, Omar, according to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS), said it is the prerogative of the state or UT government to decide where to establish any central institution.

“There are demands from members that certain institutions be set up in specific areas. As for the National Law University, we are working to build consensus. From the next financial year, we expect to start it at Ompora Budgam. We will also identify suitable land for its permanent campus so that students from across regions can benefit,” Omar said.

MLA Nizamuddin Bhat had moved a bill urging the House to impress upon the government to initiate the process of establishing the Jammu and Kashmir National Law University at Srinagar without further delay, noting that funds for the first phase had already been allocated. Bhat later withdrew the bill following the Chief Minister’s assurance.

Omar also recalled that during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister, the Centre announced a Central University and an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) for Jammu and Kashmir.

“I then raised the issue with Dr. Manmohan Singh, who was generous enough to announce two Central Universities for J&K,” the Chief Minister added. (KINS)