Controversies continue at Ravenshaw University in Cuttack, Odisha, as faculty members joined students in protesting stalled development projects. On Saturday, the Ravenshaw Teachers’ Association staged a sit-in in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s office, alleging serious lapses in the utilisation of funds earmarked for infrastructure and academic development.
According to the association, development activities at the university have come to a virtual standstill despite regular fund allocations. Teachers alleged that although money was sanctioned for various projects, the funds remained unspent and were eventually returned.
The association claimed that no new books have been purchased for the university library since 2019, despite allocated budgets. They further stated that around Rs 17 crore earmarked for development projects had lapsed and been returned due to non-utilisation. Teachers also highlighted that the second campus, though constructed, remains non-functional due to the absence of basic furniture.
Ravenshaw Teachers’ Association President Sidharth Bharadwaj said the protest focused on long-pending development issues.
“Our primary demand is for the development, renovation, and repair of the university. Since 2019, no books have been procured for the library despite allocated funds. Around Rs 17 crore has already been returned. The second campus has infrastructure but lacks essential furniture,” he said.
Association Secretary Iswar Chandra Naik added that funds allocated for academic activities, including seminars and conferences, are at risk of lapsing if not utilised by the end of the financial year.
“Funds sanctioned by the government are not being properly used, which is a failure. We want clarity on what is preventing these activities from taking place,” he said.
The teachers’ association noted that previous discussions with the Vice-Chancellor had failed to yield concrete results. No response could be obtained from university authorities regarding the allegations.
