Public resources must be allocated transparently, and existing commitments should not be sidelined in favour of new announcements
K Koushal
The proposed establishment of a research centre or campus by the University of Jammu at Budgam in Kashmir has drawn criticism over the university’s development priorities, with questions being raised about regional equity and the continued non-functionality of four approved off-site campuses in Jammu Division, including the proposed campus at Patnitop.
Criticising the move, a retired professor, wishing anonymity said that the university administration must explain why a new facility is being proposed in Kashmir when several approved campuses in Jammu Division have reportedly remained non-functional for years.
“It is deeply concerning that the University of Jammu is considering a new campus in Kashmir while its own approved campuses in Jammu Division continue to await operationalisation. Before announcing new projects, the university must explain why existing commitments to Jammu’s students have not been fulfilled,” the professor said.
The criticism centres on the perceived imbalance in the university’s development priorities.
“The University administration must answer the questions regarding the availability of hostel facilities, faculty requirements and the strengthening of existing infrastructure at the University of Jammu and its affiliated or off-site facilities,” said professor, demanding transparency regarding the proposed Budgam project, including its total estimated cost, approved budget, funding source and the administrative and statutory approvals obtained for its establishment.
A group of students also questioned rationality behind establishing campus in Kashmir, even when many campuses in Jammu division are non functional.
“Students of Jammu should not have to keep waiting for facilities that have already been approved. The university must put its priorities in the public domain and explain how it intends to ensure equitable development across regions. Public resources must be allocated transparently, and existing commitments should not be sidelined in favour of new announcements,” the students added.
They stated that the legal framework governing the territorial jurisdiction of the two universities has also been raised as an issue requiring clarification.
Section 3(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Universities Act, 1969, has been cited in the demand for disclosure of the legal basis of the proposed Budgam project and the approvals required under the applicable law.
They have called upon the Vice-Chancellor and the university administration to provide a time-bound roadmap for making Jammu Division’s four approved campuses functional, alongside details of the Budgam proposal.
“The university should first demonstrate progress on its existing commitments before undertaking further expansion,” lamented students, adding “Develop Jammu’s existing approved campuses first.”
Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof Umesh Rai was not available for comments.
