CT University Vice-Chancellor Dismissed Amid Controversy Over Kashmiri Student Treatment
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Chandigarh, Feb 25 (NationPress) The Vice-Chancellor of CT University, located in Jagraon, Punjab, has been dismissed following serious allegations of misconduct and threats directed at Kashmiri Muslim students who requested special meal provisions during Ramzan.
Himanshu Jain, the Deputy Commissioner of Ludhiana, stated that the local administration, in collaboration with law enforcement and community leaders, stepped in to calm the unrest, resulting in the termination of Vice-Chancellor Nitin Tandon after a formal investigation was ordered.
The situation escalated when Kashmiri students claimed they were deprived of suitable arrangements for 'Sehri' (the pre-dawn meal) and 'Iftar' (the meal to break the fast) in the university's dining facilities.
Upon voicing their concerns, the students reported being met with abusive language and threats of eviction from their hostels, as well as possible cancellation of their admissions.
This incident raised alarms within the families of the students, prompting the community to seek answers from the university's administration. Iltija Mufti, the daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, highlighted the issue on social media, urging Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to take action against the university officials.
Deputy Commissioner Jain informed the media that the local administration, in cooperation with Shahi Imam Maulana Mohammad Usman Rahmani Ludhianvi, successfully resolved the matter through dialogue.
He expressed gratitude towards the university management for their role in maintaining peace and resolving the conflict through communication.
On Tuesday, CT University Chancellor Charanjit Singh Channi revealed that an internal investigation has also been initiated as local authorities continue to oversee the situation.
"The Vice-Chancellor was asked to resign, and he has complied. The rest is now a matter of investigation. Tensions arose following a heated exchange between the students and the VC over food arrangements, leading to the students locking the mess. The students have concluded their protest following his resignation," the Chancellor stated.