Bisma Bhat
Srinagar, Dec 12: More than 2000 students have been left to fend for themselves after University of Kashmir arbitrarily locked hostels in the campus.
For the last three months, Kashmir University had been shut due to uncertainty post Article 370 abrogation. However, few days ago, University resumed classwork without extending hostel facilities to students of far flung areas.
“I have to travel from Bandipora district to attend my classes in Kashmir University. I can’t come daily because I have to shell out Rs 300-400 for my travel expenses. I used to stay in hostel before August 5. Post abrogation of Article 370, all hostels have been shut,” said Amina Shafi, an aggrieved student.
Another student Basit Wani said it is not possible for him to travel every day from his home at Kulgam.
“I was looking for a rented accommodation in the vicinity of Kashmir University. I was shocked to know that monthly rentals range from Rs 8000 to 10,000, which I could not afford. It is very difficult for students of far flung areas to attend classes every day,” he noted.
Provost Kashmir University, Sheikh Ajaz and Dean Academic Affairs, Professor Akbar Masood refused to comment.
Media spokesperson, Kashmir University, Professor Shahid Rasool said a small percentage of students stay in hostels while rest of them are either from Srinagar city or stay in private accommodation outside the varsity. “We have limited hostel accommodation here,” he said
Shahid said currently the attendance is very thin and when the classwork starts properly, hostels will be thrown open.
“Let students come and talk to the warden. We have to make heating, cooking and other arrangement for students who stay in the hostel. Class representatives should talk to the respective departments,” he said.
