39 Nursing Students Suspended at Mewar University Over Accreditation Protest
In a significant disciplinary action, Mewar University in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, has suspended 39 students from its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) and General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) programs. The suspension, effective immediately, was issued on Wednesday following student protests on campus regarding accreditation concerns.
Accreditation Issues Spark Student Agitation
The suspended students had been on strike, alleging that the university lacks proper accreditation from the Rajasthan Nursing Council (RNC) and the Indian Nursing Council (INC) for the BSc Nursing course. This accreditation is crucial for the validity of their degrees in the professional healthcare sector.
Aadil Lone, a fourth-year BSc Nursing student, expressed his frustration, stating, "I am in my final year, with just six months left until completion, but there is still no clarity on the course accreditation. Without it, my degree will hold no value, jeopardizing my future career prospects."
University Cites Disruption of Campus Order
The suspension order, issued by the university registrar and reviewed by media, stated that students from both programs had started an agitation on campus and were "taking law and order into their hands." The order specifically cited violations of institutional rules and regulations as the basis for the action.
The official directive mandated that the suspended students must not enter the campus, and those residing in hostels were advised to vacate immediately. The suspension will remain in force until further notice, with the university emphasizing that it was issued "in the interest of maintaining discipline and academic standards."
Protest Actions Lead to Severe Consequences
University officials clarified that the suspension was triggered when protesting students locked the main gate of the campus, disrupting movement for hostellers and staff. CD Kumawat, Registrar of Mewar University, explained, "When the students began protesting, they were warned not to disturb campus law and order. However, their action of locking the gate caused significant disruption, necessitating this disciplinary measure. We must ensure discipline is maintained, though suspension orders can be revoked if conditions improve."
University's Stance on Accreditation Process
In response to the accreditation allegations, university officials stated that the nursing courses are being conducted in accordance with directions from the Rajasthan High Court. They noted that an inspection has already been carried out by the Rajasthan Nursing Council to assess the facilities provided, with final approval still pending.
This incident highlights the growing tension between student concerns over academic validity and institutional enforcement of campus discipline, raising questions about communication and resolution processes in higher education institutions across India.
