Silvester D’Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, Aug 21: Students of Bhandarkars' College in Kundapur, led by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), staged a protest in front of the college gate, demanding the continuation of previously followed college policies.

During the protest, student Swathi Poojary expressed concerns over the lack of support for extracurricular activities within the college. She highlighted that students have to fund these activities out of their own pockets, and if the college continues to support them as it did before, it would greatly encourage student talents.

NSUI president Sujan Shetty noted that despite prior protests, the principal had accepted their memorandum and responded to their demands. However, he warned that if the college administration does not revert to the old rules, a larger protest will be organized.

The protest was also in response to the college's decision to take action against students wandering outside the campus, a move that was reportedly prompted by parental complaints. The principal, Shubhakar Achari, stated that the students' demands would be forwarded to the college management for further decision-making.

The protest saw the participation of the entire student body, with many students from rural areas voicing their concerns. They pointed out the challenges they face, such as arriving late due to agricultural work or dairy farming in the morning and the lack of proper bus facilities to their villages. Previously, students could attend the canteen after the first class, take a leave for urgent work, visit the library, or participate in sports activities. The sudden changes in college rules have caused significant difficulties, leading students to demand the reinstatement of the old policies. After the principal assured them that their issues would be addressed, the protest was called off.

NSUI state general secretary Syed Farzan, district vice president Swastik Shetty, taluk vice president Vivek, college unit president Sumukh Sheregar, Udupi district vice president Syed Adnan, and others were present. Police provided security during the protest.