Srinagar: The University of Kashmir is in a fix whether to open the varsity with or without hostels from February 7.
Insiders said that there is a section of officials who want both hostels and University to be open from February 15, but other section feels there is no need to open up hostels for students in wake of Covid-19 pandemic.
The Cluster University and the Islamic University for Science and Technology have already issued notices stating these Universities will open up on Feb 15, however, Kashmir University had decided to open the University on Feb 1, but later on it issued a separate notice extending the vacation period till Feb 7.
Insiders told news agency KNT that over 2,000 students both male and female are residing in different University hostels while one wonders where these students will go if University won’t open up the hostels for them.
“There are students who are from far flung areas including Tulail, Gurez, Keran, Rajouri, Poonch etc. These students will face tough time if they won’t be allowed to stay at hostels,” said an insider alleging that the University of Kashmir is least bothered about the welfare of the students.
He said when hundreds of students despite Covid-19 guidelines in place can attend a coaching centre why can’t students stay in hostels.
When contacted, Dean, Academic Affairs, Mr Akbar Masoodi told KNT that a committee has been set up to take a decision in this regard. “The Committee will take a final decision tomorrow or day after tomorrow. This Committee that will decide whether hostels will be thrown open for students or not,” Masoodi said.