The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) is actively seeking funds from the central government to construct boundary walls and enhance security measures on campus, as announced by the Vice-Chancellor, Santishree D Pandit. This initiative aims to prevent trespassing and improve overall safety, especially around hostel areas.
The Vice-Chancellor revealed plans to install CCTV cameras in public spaces, including hostel gates. This move is a part of a broader effort to bolster security on the university campus, which has been a longstanding concern due to incidents of vandalism and violence, particularly against women.
In a conversation with ANI, Santishree claimed that since her tenure began at the centrally funded university, there have been no major incidents compromising the safety and security of students and teachers. She acknowledged that with the upcoming JNUSU elections, reports of violence might increase as a result of heightened political activities.
Santishree highlighted the university’s expansive campus, which spans nearly 2,000 acres, including areas where the existing boundary wall has been damaged. This has allowed unauthorized entry not only through the main gates but also through these vulnerable points, which are surrounded by forest areas.
To address these security challenges, JNU is not only relying on government assistance but is also exploring funding through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and support from alumni associations. These efforts are directed towards repairing and enhancing the campus infrastructure, including the boundary walls.
Despite recent improvements in security measures, incidents of vandalism and violence have still been reported on campus. The Vice-Chancellor mentioned a specific incident in December when slogans demanding the rebuilding of Babri Masjid appeared on the walls of the Language Study Centre.
Addressing concerns raised by some students over the installation of CCTV cameras, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that CCTV is a crucial tool for monitoring illegal activities on campus. She argued that in today’s digital age, where students freely use mobile devices with Wi-Fi access, the presence of surveillance cameras is a necessary and effective measure for ensuring campus security.
This initiative by JNU represents a concerted effort to create a safer and more secure environment for its academic community, balancing the need for security with the concerns of students and faculty.
