In a show of solidarity and determination, students of the University School of Mass Communication (USMC) at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) protested against the unilateral decision to relocate their program to the university’s East Campus.

One of the grievances cited by the students is the breach of agreement, as the decision to shift the program violates the terms stated in their admission letters, which specifically mentioned the Dwarka Campus Address. Many students feel that the relocation without their knowledge or consent is unjust and undermines their trust in the university administration.

Moreover, the sudden relocation has disrupted student life, causing logistical issues for local and out-of-town students who had already made housing arrangements based on the Dwarka campus location. This has led to mental distress and financial burden among the student community, with some facing challenges in affording increased accommodation costs.

Safety concerns have also been raised regarding the new location, with reports of alarming incidents adding to the anxieties of both students and parents. Relocation of students who have settled in Dwarka and their rental agreements and financial loss is the primary concern for students. However, for the Director of the Directorate of Students’ Welfare, the “loss of 2-3 students is a very small issue” and they are fine with some students being collateral damage in this process.

The lack of transparency regarding the relocation of admission brochures and promotional materials has further fuelled mistrust among the student community. The fact that the admission letter states the address of Dwarka Campus went unanswered by authorities. To add to this, the new university prospectus, for upcoming students, also states the Dwarka Campus address, which is misleading them.

Efforts to engage with university authorities, including writing letters and seeking meetings, have been met with silence and delays, leaving students feeling unheard and unsupported. Despite their attempts to voice their concerns, students have been met with contradictory responses and vague assurances from university officials.

In a recent meeting with the Registrar of GGSIPU, students were left feeling disrespected and dismissed, with their concerns labeled as “emotional issues” rather than rational grievances. Besides the signatures and complaints of the whole class, the Proctor said: “that the problems stated by students were individual and not tenable enough”.

The Dean of USMC, Mr. A.K. Saini allegedly suggested that students withdraw their admissions if they were unhappy with the decision, further exacerbating tensions between the administration and the student body.

Amidst these challenges, students remain resolute in their demands for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment from university authorities. They urge the administration to reconsider the decision to relocate the Mass Communication program and provide a notice period of at least one year for affected students.

As the voices of dissent grow louder, students vow to continue their protest until their concerns are addressed and their rights as stakeholders in the university are respected.