Kashmiri nursing students at Mewar University reportedly faced assault following a campus protest concerning their program’s accreditation. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) reported that dozens of students were allegedly attacked after raising concerns about the BSc Nursing program’s approval status.
Protest Over Course Approval
Students initiated a protest to question the program’s recognition by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and the Rajasthan Nursing Council (RNC). With the course nearing completion in approximately four months, students feared their degrees might be invalidated, impacting future registration and employment opportunities.
The JKSA stated that 33 Kashmiri students had previously been suspended after a peaceful demonstration seeking administrative clarification. These suspensions remain in effect.
Nasir Khuehami, JKSA national convenor, stated that the university repeatedly assured students that approvals would be secured. However, no formal confirmation was ever provided. “Students invested time and resources in good faith,” Khuehami said. “Responsibility for approvals cannot be shifted onto them.”
Alleged Assault and Injuries
Tensions escalated during the protest. Reports from media and the JKSA allege that a group, reportedly including local activists, confronted the Kashmiri students. Four students sustained injuries. A female student was also allegedly manhandled.
The JKSA reported an insufficient response from local police. Students now express fears of further intimidation on campus. The association emphasized that the issue is academic and regulatory, urging it not to be politicized.
Intervention Sought
The JKSA has contacted Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas. He reportedly assured appropriate action. The association has also urged Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to intervene.
The JKSA demands either immediate statutory approval for the course or the transfer of affected students to recognized institutions. This aims to prevent academic loss for the students.
The association stressed that students should not face penalties for alleged administrative failures.