A recent video shared by MLA Mehraj Malik from Doda has sparked intense debate across social media and educational circles. The footage exposes a shocking reality—students in government schools, even up to class 10, are struggling to read basic English. This revelation shines a harsh light on the deteriorating quality of education in many parts of Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in government-run institutions.
The video showcases an impromptu English reading test conducted by MLA Mehraj Malik in a local government school. Students from various classes, including Class 10, were asked to read basic English text. The outcome? A staggering number of students were unable to read or understand simple English words.
This assessment highlights a fundamental educational shortcoming: the failure to equip children with essential language skills, particularly in English. In an era where English proficiency is often a gateway to academic and professional opportunities, such a gap could severely limit students’ futures.
This is the condition of our education system and govt schools where class 10 students cant even read basic english words.
— Mehraj Malik (@MehrajMalikAAP) July 21, 2025
We expect them to compete on state level? Reservations are also meant for rich only.
@ArvindKejriwal @OmarAbdullah @manojsinha_ @sakinaitoo pic.twitter.com/BO8sOv5Y8z
The assessment initiated by the MLA was not just a casual check but a focused analysis of two core components of reading:
- Comprehension – the ability to understand and derive meaning from text.
- Vocabulary and Word Fluency – the ease and accuracy with which students identify and use words.
These two elements are foundational in learning any language, and the inability to master them indicates systemic issues in teaching methodologies and curriculum execution.
Public Reactions: A Mixed Bag of Outrage and Concern
The video prompted a wave of responses on X (formerly Twitter), many of which criticized the state of education, while others called out the MLA’s method of exposing the students.
Criticism Over Public Shaming
A user named Aamir commented:
“You shouldn’t have made their faces public. Now these kids will probably live with shame forever. The internet never forgets.”
Comparison With Other States
Another user, Gotam Singh, remarked:
“People from my state aren’t receiving proper education. Meanwhile, other states are getting aerospace centers, industrial growth, and film cities. It’s clear partiality by the Centre.”
Call for Teacher Accountability
One user wrote:
“Every government teacher should enroll their children in the same schools they teach. Only then will the quality of education improve.”
Er. Showkat Khan added:
“Teachers in village government schools aren’t doing their jobs. The education system has failed completely.”
Reservations Under Fire
Many reactions questioned the role of reservations in the recruitment of teachers. A user commented:
“If teachers weren’t recruited through reservations with half the score, students might have received better education.”
Saqib Nazir added:
“Instead of distributing reservations blindly, focus on uplifting the education system. Poorly trained teachers harm society.”
Systemic Failures in Government Education
The MLA’s video brings attention to long-standing issues in the government education system:
- Underqualified Teachers: Many believe that recruitment processes, especially those influenced by reservation, have led to the hiring of underqualified staff.
- Lack of Accountability: Teachers are rarely evaluated for performance, leading to widespread negligence.
- Resource Deficiency: Schools often lack basic learning materials, proper infrastructure, and modern teaching methods.
In today’s globalized world, English is more than just a subject—it’s a life skill. It opens doors to higher education, professional advancement, and better communication. A student unable to read English is significantly disadvantaged in national-level competitive exams and future job markets.
Private Schools Not Exempt
While the video focuses on government schools, it acts as a wake-up call even for urban private schools. Many institutions emphasize rote learning over comprehension, resulting in poor reading habits despite better infrastructure and resources.
MLA Mehraj Malik’s video may have ruffled feathers, but it has undeniably triggered a much-needed conversation about the state of education in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond. Instead of focusing on the act of exposure, stakeholders must channel their energy into fixing what’s broken. The time to prioritize foundational learning, especially reading in English, is now—before another generation is left behind.
