Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKAS) on Sunday sought the intervention of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding the alleged harassment of Kashmiri students at Mewar University in Rajasthan.
In a statement, the convenor of JKSA, Nasir Khuehami, alleged that over 50 students pursuing B.Sc Nursing programs have been facing academic and physical challenges due to the university's failure to obtain mandatory approvals for the course.
He said that the programme lacks recognition from the Rajasthan Nursing Council (RNC) and the Indian Nursing Council (INC), jeopardising the students’ academic futures.
"The absence of these essential approvals has left students uncertain about their studies,’’ he said. “Instead of resolving their legitimate concerns, the university has resorted to unjust actions, infringing on their fundamental right to seek justice."
He said that despite repeated assurances from the university administration, including a written promise by the registrar three months ago, no tangible progress has been made. The students were recently informed that they would have to wait another month for a resolution, forcing them to extend their protests.
"The university has been operating the programme without the necessary approvals, misleading students with empty promises,’’ he said.
Khuehami said even the chairman’s assurances have proven futile. “After dedicating three years to this course, students cannot endure further delays," he said.
The Association alleged that the university is pressuring students to abandon their protests, threatening suspensions and fee reimbursements under the Jammu and Kashmir Student Scholarship Scheme (JKSSS).
Khuehami said sending these students back after years of hard work is unacceptable. “They are being treated unfairly and deserve justice," he said.
He further accused the university of involving the Rajasthan police to intimidate students. "The police have been threatening students with dire consequences for continuing their protests,’’ he said.
Khuehami said the students waited patiently until December 4, as the university claimed the issue was being heard in the Rajasthan High Court. However, despite their patience, no action has been taken. "It is now December 15, and their future remains uncertain. These students are caught in a cycle of neglect and empty promises," he said.
He said the situation escalated on Saturday evening when over 40 Kashmiri students were reportedly assaulted by Rajasthan police while peacefully protesting.
The students were allegedly expelled from the university premises, forcing them to spend freezing nights outside the gates. "For months, they have been peacefully demanding recognition and certification for their programme. Instead, they have faced violence, intimidation, and neglect," he said.
The Association has urged J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to personally intervene and resolve the issue.
