Over 50 Kashmiri nursing students at Mewar University in Rajasthan face academic uncertainty following a protest. The demonstration on February 27, 2024 , centered on the alleged lack of regulatory approval for their BSc Nursing program. Authorities suspended 33 students and four were injured.
Protest Details and Allegations
Students in the 2022-2026 batch, admitted under the Jammu & Kashmir Special Scholarship Scheme (JKSSS), raised concerns. They claim their program may not have approvals from the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and the Rajasthan Nursing Council (RNC). During the protest, students alleged confrontation by unknown individuals on campus. Four students sustained injuries. Social media showed large student gatherings. Some protesters reported the presence of individuals with knives, though this is unconfirmed by police.
University Recognition Dispute
Concerns about the nursing course’s recognition first surfaced in 2023 . Students stated they were shown approval documents that later appeared to have discrepancies. Previous protests were reportedly halted after university assurances of obtaining approvals or student migration. However, students claim no resolution has been reached.
With graduation near, students fear their degrees will be invalid without official recognition. This could prevent professional registration and employment.
Political Intervention Sought
The incident has drawn attention from political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir. Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi expressed concern over attacks on Kashmiri students nationwide. He cited a “politics of hate” affecting institutions.
Apni Party leader Ghulam Hassan Mir also voiced concern. Several Jammu and Kashmir legislators have called for government intervention. They seek to ensure student safety and academic rights.
Affected students demand immediate clarification on their course status. They also request protection from further intimidation. A formal response from university and regulatory authorities is awaited.