KUSU Terms REC Conversion to NIT a ‘Conspiracy’, Slams Campus Developments
Proscribed Student Body Opposes Expansion of Indian Institutes in Valley
Srinagar, April 2, KNT: The proscribed Kashmir University Students Union on Saturday termed the conversion of Regional Engineering College into National Institute of Technology Srinagar as a “planned conspiracy,” alleging that the move was aimed at altering the academic and demographic character of educational institutions in the Valley.
In a statement issued here, KUSU claimed that the recent episode at NIT Srinagar reflected what it described as a broader attempt to make campuses hostile for Kashmiri students. The student body alleged that the prevailing atmosphere on certain campuses had created insecurity among local students and accused authorities of backing what it called hegemonic tendencies.
The statement asserted that the transition from Regional Engineering College to NIT had reduced opportunities for local aspirants and significantly altered student intake patterns over the past decade. It described the development as part of a wider policy framework and alleged that the change had undermined what it termed previously available academic space and autonomy.
Referring to recent protests at the University of Kashmir, the group reiterated its opposition to national-level institutes operating in the Valley and called for restoration of the REC structure. It rejected the expansion of centrally funded institutions and urged authorities to instead focus on upgrading local educational infrastructure.
KUSU also condemned the reported use of force during campus unrest and expressed solidarity with Kashmiri students enrolled at NIT Srinagar. The statement maintained that long-term stability could only be ensured through educational reforms aligned with local aspirations. [KNT]
