Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) officials met with the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) to discuss a range of pressing issues, including water scarcity, campus accessibility, employment age limits for mess workers, and student protests.
A key development from the meeting was the university's consideration of setting up water collection centers and check dams on campus to address the long-standing water scarcity problem. This initiative responds to persistent demands from students seeking effective solutions. The Vice-Chancellor (VC) has instructed the Rector to explore local solutions, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water management within the campus.
In parallel, the university is preparing to release a report on the accessibility audit of the campus, which aims to evaluate the facilities and arrangements made for students with disabilities (PwD). This move is part of JNU's ongoing efforts to improve campus inclusivity and support for all students.
The JNUSU also raised concerns about the safety of visually impaired students, citing a recent incident on May 30 where two visually impaired students were injured by an auto parked on a tactile path between Godavari Juice Shop and Kaveri Hostel. This incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement of campus safety regulations and better accommodation for students with disabilities.
Another significant issue discussed was the employment age bar for mess workers. Following student protests, Dean of Students Manuradha Chaudhary announced that the employment age limit would be extended to 60 years, in accordance with legal standards, after consultations with the university's legal cell. This change addresses the demands of the student body and ensures fair employment practices.
Additionally, the students' union called for the immediate withdrawal of proctorial inquiries against students who protested water shortages last year. They also expressed concerns over the discontinuation of fellowships, PhD admissions through the National Exit Test (NET), and the curbing of protests on campus.
The meeting was attended by key university officials, including JNU Registrar Ravikesh, Rector 1 Satish Chandra Garkoti, Rector 2 Dipendra Nath Das, and Vice-Chancellor Santishree Pandit. These discussions highlight the university's commitment to addressing student grievances and improving campus life.