SRINAGAR, BSc nursing students took to the streets of Srinagar to protest the delay in the counseling process to fill vacant seats. The students expressed concerns about the prolonged uncertainty, claiming it jeopardizes their futures.

According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, the protesters gathered at the Press Colony, where they displayed placards with slogans voicing their demands. They are urging for a second round of counseling by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examination (JKBOPEE), which they argue has been tardy in its responsibilities.

One of the students shared that despite the number of vacant seats, the JKBOPEE has failed to hold the second counseling round, which has been a source of growing frustration among the aspirants. Further complicating matters, the students stated they have been caught between the JKBOPEE and the Indian Nursing Council, with both parties shifting responsibility to the other.

While authorities claim they are awaiting the scheduled date for the second round of counseling from the Indian Nursing Council, the latter insists that the local competent authority should initiate the request for the dates.

An aspirant suggested that if the JKBOPEE is incapable of conducting the counseling process, they should consider outsourcing it to ensure timely completion. The students highlighted that around 1,500 seats remain unfilled and emphasized the urgency, as exams took place in June, and they are still awaiting the commencement of the counseling process.