Srinagar, May 01: In a good example of resilience and determination, Sadiq Sarwar Rather, a deaf and mute student from Chattibandi village in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district, has passed the Class 12 board examinations with distinction—scoring an outstanding 436 out of 500 marks.
Sadiq’s achievement is not just academic; it is a story of personal triumph over extraordinary challenges. Orphaned at a young age, he lost his father, Mohammad Sarwar Rather, in a tragic road accident in 2012. In addition to coping with the grief of this loss, Sadiq has undergone five major surgeries in his lifetime—all while dealing with the daily realities of being hearing and speech impaired.
Despite these obstacles, Sadiq pursued education through visual learning, supported by the relentless dedication of his family and teachers. In a region where access to special education is extremely limited, his journey stands as a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance and community support.
His success has sparked pride and celebration in his hometown. “Sadiq’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. It sends a strong message that with determination and the right support, no limitation is insurmountable,” said a neighbor who has known him since childhood.
Sadiq’s story highlights the urgent need for inclusive education policies and better support systems for differently-abled students in Jammu and Kashmir. His achievement serves as a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar challenges.
A proud moment for Bandipora, Sadiq Sarwar’s resilience is inspiring students across the Valley and beyond. His community, educators and well-wishers have hailed him as a symbol of courage, strength, and the limitless potential of the human spirit.
