Scores of Kashmiri students pursuing nursing degrees at Desh Bhagat University (DBU), Punjab, have found themselves embroiled in a contentious admission debacle. Their protest against the alleged unapproved transfers of nearly 70 students to unrecognized colleges by DBU entered its 11th day, culminating in a distressing clash with authorities, as per reports.
The protesting students assert that the university’s decision to transfer them lacks approval from the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and Punjab Nursing Registration Council (PNRC), with seemingly little consideration for their concerns. As their future hangs in the balance, they have continued their peaceful protest for ten consecutive days. Unfortunately, the situation took a violent turn when students were subjected to a lathi charge, resulting in injuries to several.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has taken the matter to Union Minister for Health and Medical Education Mansukh Mandaviya and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. They expressed their discontent over the transfer of Kashmiri students enrolled in various paramedical courses from DBU Punjab to Sardar Lal Singh College without their consent.
Nasir Khuehami, the National Convenor of the Association, demanded justice for these nursing students. He emphasized that the university’s unilateral decision has left the students in a precarious position. Sardar Lal Singh Memorial College, though affiliated with DBU Punjab, lacks recognition from the Indian Nursing Council, a violation of established norms that imperils the students’ educational and future career prospects.
It has come to light that Desh Bhagat University admitted 140 students, significantly exceeding the approved intake capacity. Consequently, these students are now grappling with immense stress and uncertainty, fearing that their career prospects have been unjustly jeopardized due to the university’s actions.
Khuehami urged Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to preserve the students’ registrations, allowing them to continue their nursing education without further hindrance. He urged the Chief Minister to prioritize the resolution of this matter in the best interest of these young, aspiring nurses.
The affected students initially approached university authorities last year, who assured them that the issue would be resolved. Unfortunately, despite these promises, the students’ predicament has worsened over time. They are currently in their third year of studies and have been informed by the DBU administration that they must cancel their admissions. This announcement has left the students with limited options and a bleak academic future.
In light of these developments, there is a growing demand for a transparent and expeditious investigation to determine how DBU admitted more students than permitted by the Indian Nursing Council. Accountability is being sought for those responsible for this situation, as the students continue to struggle for their educational rights and a secure future.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
