VC Removed at CT University After Row Over Ramadan Meal Arrangements for Kashmiri Students
JKSA Confirms Removal of Vice Chancellor, Says Matter Resolved
Srinagar, Feb 25, KNT: The Vice Chancellor of CT University, Ludhiana, has been terminated following allegations of misconduct and administrative failure linked to harassment complaints by Kashmiri Muslim students during the holy month of Ramzan.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association said on Wednesday that the Punjab Chief Secretary, KAP Sinha, informed the Association that the matter was examined at the highest level and necessary action has been taken. According to the Association, Dr. Nitin Tandon has been removed from the post of Vice Chancellor with immediate effect.
The controversy surfaced after Kashmiri students alleged that they were threatened with eviction from hostels and cancellation of admissions when they sought arrangements for Sehri and Iftar in the university mess. The students further alleged that the then Vice Chancellor used inappropriate language and warned them of academic consequences.
The issue triggered a peaceful protest on campus, with students demanding a fair inquiry, safety assurances and institutional accountability. Following intervention by the Association, senior district officials including SSP Ludhiana Ankur Gupta and SDM Upinderjit Kaur Brar visited the campus to assess the situation and ensure the security of the students.
Shahi Imam Punjab, Maulana Mohammad Usman Rahmani Ludhianvi, also visited the university and facilitated dialogue between students and authorities to ease tensions.
University Chancellor Charanjit Singh Channi later confirmed that the Vice Chancellor had been terminated over his alleged conduct and handling of the situation. He said an internal investigation has been initiated, while local authorities continue to monitor developments.
The Punjab Government has constituted a high-level committee headed by the SDM to conduct a time-bound inquiry into the incident, including examination of possible administrative lapses.
The Association said the agitation has been formally called off after the action and inquiry order, and expressed gratitude to the Punjab Government, university management, district administration, police authorities and community leaders for ensuring a peaceful resolution. It reiterated that Punjab has historically remained welcoming towards Kashmiri students and emphasised the need to preserve communal harmony and inclusivity. [KNT]
