Guwahati: In a reversal, Cotton University has withdrawn its controversial proposal to lease out campus land to private entities for revenue generation.
The decision comes just days after the university initially denied the plan and then faced strong opposition from the public and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
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The university authorities initially claimed the earlier reports of the land lease plan were “misreported” and “baseless.”
However, on Wednesday, they acknowledged the concerns raised and stated the decision was withdrawn “with the approval of the Vice-Chancellor.”
“We understand that our previous communication regarding potential land use caused concern. We are committed to exploring alternative solutions that best serve the student community,”the statement reads.
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This change of course follows Chief Minister Sarma’s firm stance against the plan. He had publicly declared on social media that the government would not allow such a move.
The university’s initial decision stemmed from financial difficulties. Minutes from a March meeting reveal the formation of a committee to explore space allocation within the campus for revenue generation.
Cotton University, a prestigious institution with a rich history, boasts several prominent figures among its alumni, including Chief Minister Sarma himself. This fact made the proposed land lease even more contentious.
Opposition leader Akhil Gogoi expressed sadness at the university’s financial struggles, calling it “bad news for Assam.” He criticized the state government’s commitment to education in light of this situation.