Over 300 students protested Thursday outside Asha Paramedical and Nursing Institute in Salbari, Siliguri. Students allege the institute misled them about course qualifications, leading to vocational training certificates instead of recognized paramedical diplomas and degrees.
Students from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim, and Nepal enrolled believing they were pursuing accredited paramedical and nursing programs. These programs were intended to lead to diplomas for non-science students and degrees for science students.
Misleading Admissions Alleged
Students claim they were informed nearly a year into their two-year programs that only science background students could continue. This eligibility requirement was reportedly not mentioned during admissions.
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) stated that students from arts, science, and commerce streams were admitted without verification of their academic backgrounds. ABVP North Bengal Secretary Dipto De reported, “At the time of admission, background did not matter. Later, students were told that only science students could continue with nursing or paramedical courses, while others would be moved to vocational training.”
Previous Graduates Report Invalid Certificates
The protest grew when former students joined, claiming their certificates hold no job market value. According to De, “only two students from earlier batches managed to find employment, while others were informed that their certificates were invalid.”
Tensions escalated as students sought explanations from institute staff. They reported receiving no clear answers. De alleged institute authorities, including the director, fled the premises.
Pradhan Nagar police initially declined to register complaints. A complaint has since been filed.
Institute Identity Questioned
Students like Anugraha Limbo, pursuing radiology, and her sister, in pathology, found discrepancies in their educational documentation. Their identity cards for the 2026 batch identified the institution as ‘Asha Vocational Training Centre,’ contradicting their belief they enrolled in a paramedical institute.
Certificates for the 2023 batch labeled the institute a ‘paramedical training centre.’ Newer certificates reportedly state ‘vocational training centre.’ Limbo stated officials claimed it was a name change when questioned.
The institute, which opened in 2022, reportedly charges Rs 1.3 lakh for two-year diploma programs and Rs 2.6 lakh for two-year undergraduate programs for science students. Students from humanities backgrounds paid Rs 1.3 lakh for a diploma.
Demands and Hostel Concerns
Protesting students are demanding full refunds of admission fees and compensation for lost academic time. They also raised concerns about the institute’s hostel facilities. Students paid Rs 7,000 monthly but reported issues with security and food quality.
Attempts to contact the institute failed. A number listed on the Asha Institute website was answered by an individual from Shradha Nursing Home, who stated they were considering a complaint against Asha Institute due to persistent calls. Authorities’ mobile phones have reportedly been seized.