Cuttack's Historic Sailabala Women's College Sees Escalated Protests for University Status
In a significant escalation of the ongoing agitation, alumni of Sailabala (SB) Women's College and prominent members of the intelligentsia have now joined the college students who have been protesting on the campus in Cuttack for over one month. The unified front is demanding that the state government grant university status to this historic institution, which holds the distinction of being the oldest women's college in Odisha.
Dharna and Demands for a Definitive Timeline
The protesters staged a dharna outside the college premises, vociferously demanding that the Odisha government announce a clear and definitive time period for declaring Sailabala Women's College as a university. Expressing deep concern, Gopa Das, an alumni member, stated, "The college is an integral part of Odia Asmita (Odia identity). It is disheartening to see that students are on strike for more than one month and there was no assurance from the government." In addition to the university status, the protesters are also adamant that the college land should not be transferred for any non-academic purposes, emphasizing the need to preserve the institution's educational integrity.
Failed Talks with Collector Lead to Overnight Demonstration
The student representatives met with Cuttack Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde on Tuesday, seeking assurances regarding their two primary demands. However, as the talks with him failed to yield any concrete commitments, the female students staged a determined demonstration on the college campus throughout the night. The students have firmly asserted that their agitation will continue unabated until their demands are met, showcasing their unwavering resolve.
Government's Response and Infrastructure Funding
Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj provided insights into the government's stance. He revealed that more than Rs 1 crore has been sanctioned by the government for the college's infrastructure development. In a written reply to a query on the issue by MLA Sofia Firdous, the minister informed the assembly that during the financial years 2024-25 and 2025-26, an amount exceeding Rs 1.68 crore was sanctioned to the college. This funding is allocated for repair and renovation works, including initiatives to make the campus disabled-friendly.
Proposal for University Status Under Consideration
Minister Suraj further informed the assembly that the state government received the proposal to grant university status to Sailabala Women's College last year. He assured that a decision will be taken by the government in due course. Highlighting the prerequisites, he mentioned that specific budget provisions are being made for the college's infrastructure development, which is a qualifying requirement for attaining the university tag. This indicates that while the demand is under review, the government is focusing on meeting the necessary criteria before any formal declaration.
The protest at Sailabala Women's College underscores a critical moment in Odisha's higher education landscape, as stakeholders rally to elevate the status of a venerable institution while ensuring its resources are safeguarded for academic excellence.
