ABVP opposes merger of 12 DU colleges into Ambedkar University

NEW DELHI: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has expressed opposition to the recent letter written by Delhi education minister Atishi Marlena to Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan proposing the merger of 12 Delhi University colleges into Ambedkar University.

As per ABVP, Delhi government has repeatedly failed in its education policy for Delhi and is now seeking to undermine the autonomy and independence of the institution with this proposal of merging the colleges.

The ABVP mentions that from 1986 to 1994, the central government used the Delhi government's education budget to build 12 colleges under Delhi University. Following then, several administrations maintained continuity until the Aam Aadmi Party came to power in 2015.

ABVP believes that the current Delhi government has been inconsistent in its management of these colleges since the beginning, be it the protracted appointment of permanent principals to the neglect of basic college facilities, addressing financial issues during the COVID pandemic, or ignoring infrastructure needs.

The ABVP press release read, “The recent discovery over the expenditure of approximately 45 crores on the Delhi chief minister's residence 'Sheesh Mahal' has exposed the true nature of this corrupt government.”

According to ABVP, the Delhi government's actions and proposals concerning these 12 Delhi University colleges are not appropriate, putting the future of these colleges and the students in risk.

The ABVP urges an investigation into the state government's education funding pattern.

Harsh Attri, ABVP Delhi secretary, said "The government's decision is dictatorial, inflicting a blow to Delhi University's autonomy. These 12 colleges are integral components of University. The government's proposal will leave the future of these colleges hanging. Additionally, it is surprising that the government can make such crucial decisions without consulting stakeholders, particularly the students. ABVP will shortly conduct a survey to understand students' perspectives and opinions as this decision will significantly impact them. ABVP insists that the state government should prioritize its responsibilities by considering the future of students and, if incapable, should resign."

Delhi University students' union president, Tushar Dedha, said that a survey will be circulated among students regarding this proposal as it directs impacts the educational experience of the students.