Jhargram College Confronts Rs 40,000 Donation Demand for Gita Recital Event
A college in Jhargram district has found itself at the center of a controversy after receiving a donation demand of Rs 40,000 from a local organization. The demand is specifically for a Hindu conference and a mass Gita recital event. This situation has drawn a sharp reaction from state minister Birbaha Hansda, who serves as the president of the college's governing committee.
Details of the Donation Demand
The Sanatani Unity Forum issued the donation demand to Manikpara Vivekananda Centenary College. They requested the sum for organizing a Hindu conference along with a large-scale Gita recital. The event is planned to take place on January 27 in Manikpara. College authorities received the official donation receipt for this amount on Friday, bringing the matter to light.
This demand has raised significant concerns among the college administration and local officials. The timing and nature of the request have sparked discussions about fundraising practices in educational institutions.
Minister Birbaha Hansda's Strong Response
State Minister Birbaha Hansda reacted strongly to the donation demand. She made her position clear in a statement regarding the issue. Hansda emphasized that while programs and events can certainly occur, no one should impose donation demands on anyone. She specifically highlighted that educational institutions like schools and colleges should not face such pressures.
"Any programme can take place, but no one can demand donations from anyone, especially not from school or college authorities," Hansda stated firmly. She further explained, "The money from enrolled students cannot be given to an organisation in this manner." Her comments underscore the importance of protecting educational funds and maintaining the integrity of academic institutions.
Broader Implications and Community Reaction
This incident has sparked broader conversations about donation practices targeting educational institutions in West Bengal. Local residents and educational advocates are watching the situation closely. Many express concern about similar demands affecting other colleges and schools in the region.
The college administration now faces the challenge of addressing this demand while upholding their financial responsibilities to students. The scheduled event on January 27 adds urgency to resolving this matter appropriately.
Community leaders and educational authorities are likely to monitor how this situation develops. The outcome could set important precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future across West Bengal's educational landscape.
