Protest Erupts at Mangalore University Over Exam Fee Hike
Mangalore University witnessed a significant student protest on Friday, led by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), against the university’s substantial increase in exam-related fees. This surge in fees, ranging from 50% to 60%, will affect exams scheduled from December 2024 through January 2025. Demonstrators demanded a rollback, citing an unjust burden on students. Some protesters forcefully entered the administrative building and caused property damage, including smashing windowpanes while chanting for justice.
Ganesh Poojary, ABVP Mangaluru Divisional Convener, criticized the university’s fee adjustment, pointing out a marks card fee hike from ₹230 to ₹500—despite only digital marks issued, which reportedly contain errors due to lapses in updating the Unified University and College Management System (UUCMS).
Vice-Chancellor P. L. Dharma justified the fee increase, noting it followed six years of unchanged rates and post-pandemic reductions, claiming it remains lower than rates in other private institutions. However, he acknowledged issues with the UUCMS, attributing some blame to college principals for failing to upload student details accurately. He assured students that their concerns would be presented to the university’s Syndicate and government.
The protest concluded upon receiving this assurance, amid criticism from rival student groups over the ABVP’s methods. Suhan Alva, president of the National Students’ Union of India’s Dakshina Kannada unit, condemned the destruction of property and called for police action. Higher Education Minister M.C. Sudhakar is reportedly aware of the issues and promises resolution.
This development highlights ongoing student unrest over educational policies and financial burdens, with further discussions expected as the Syndicate reviews the grievances.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/led-by-abvp-students-protest-against-mangalore-university-hiking-exam-related-fees/article68872741.ece
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