UP’s bulldozer on education puts future of Jauhar University students at risk
Lucknow: Bhopal-based social activist Ms Razia Masood has called the Uttar Pradesh government’s move to demolish 38 of 40 buildings at Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur, including the university mosque, under the pretext of “illegal construction”, one of the most sweeping abuses of power.
According to Kashmir Media Service, tension gripped the campus after Rampur Development Authority issued the demolition notice on July 15. Students launched an indefinite sit-in at the main gate demanding its withdrawal.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Zaheeruddin said RDA had no jurisdiction when the buildings were constructed in 2016 and called branding them illegal “unacceptable.” The university, established in 2006 and UGC-recognised, runs over 100 programs for around 3,000 students, nearly 40% of whom are from non-Muslim communities.
Delegations from Sikh, Hindu and Muslim organisations, along with Samajwadi Party leaders including MP Iqra Hasan, have visited the campus to express solidarity and termed it a “temple of education.” A 10-member SP delegation submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate seeking withdrawal of the order. The demolition order has been challenged before the Moradabad Divisional Commissioner, with the hearing fixed for July 28.
