The future of over 4,000 students and dozens of staff members at a prominent women's college in Dhanbad has been thrown into uncertainty following an eviction notice from the local district council. The management of BSS Mahila College is now urgently seeking a resolution to allow the institute to continue its educational mission.
Eviction Notice Sparks Crisis
On January 8, the Dhanbad District Council issued a formal eviction notice to the management of BSS Mahila College. The council claims ownership of the land on which the college has been operating. The notice directed the college administration to vacate the premises within a strict deadline of 15 days. This sudden move has created a wave of anxiety, putting the academic careers of thousands of young women and the livelihoods of faculty and staff at risk.
College Management Seeks Amicable Solution
In response to the crisis, the college management immediately began efforts to find a peaceful and workable solution. The principal of the college, Karuna, took the lead by holding a crucial meeting with the chairperson of the Dhanbad District Council, Sharda Singh, on Saturday.
During the discussions, Principal Karuna highlighted the institution's vital role in the community. She emphasized that the college has been educating thousands of girls from Dhanbad district and adjoining areas for years. Furthermore, she pointed out that around 50 families depend on the institute for their livelihood through teaching and non-teaching roles.
Instead of a forced eviction, the principal proposed a lease agreement. She urged Chairperson Singh to consider leasing the land to the college management, ensuring that academic activities are not disrupted and the welfare of students remains protected.
Decision Deferred for Mutual Agreement
The Saturday meeting concluded with a temporary reprieve and a plan for further discussion. Both parties agreed to work out a mutual agreement after January 26.
Council Chairperson Sharda Singh provided clarification on the council's stance. She stated that the intention is not to remove the college from its premises. However, she noted that if an institution functions on district council land, the council should receive appropriate revenue for its use.
"The decision would be taken keeping in mind the welfare of students and teachers," Singh said. "Both institutions will sit together and arrive at a decision that does not cause hardships to anyone."
This development offers a glimmer of hope for the students and staff of BSS Mahila College. The coming weeks will be critical as both sides negotiate a lease arrangement that satisfies the council's need for revenue while securing the long-term future of this important educational center for women in Dhanbad.
