West Bengal Colleges Directed to Close Students’ Union Rooms Following HC Order

Speedy Summary

• The Calcutta High Court ordered all universities and colleges in West Bengal to lock students’ union rooms, allowing access only with written permission from authorized personnel.
• Following a July 3 directive, the Department of Higher Education issued a circular on July 16, asking institutions to ensure compliance.
• The restriction does not apply to recreational or common rooms but solely targets designated union rooms.
• Colleges like Kolkata’s New Alipore College implemented tighter security measures such as locking union rooms, employing additional female security staff, CCTV surveillance, regular meetings with female students for feedback, and self-defense programs.
• Some institutions delayed action due to unclear instructions from authorities before the formal circular was issued.
• Persistent complaints highlighted recurring issues such as former students interfering in academic life or intimidating current faculty and students on campuses.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The decision by the Calcutta High Court and subsequent enforcement by the Department of Higher Education addresses notable concerns over student safety within college campuses in West Bengal. By restricting unsanctioned access to student union rooms-a space reportedly misused by outsiders-this order aims at curbing intimidation and harassment while protecting vulnerable groups like female students and faculty members. Institutions that have proactively implemented both physical security measures and behavioral interventions (like self-defense programs) emerge as examples of compliance aiding campus safety.

However, reactions reflect mixed levels of readiness across colleges; delays caused by ambiguous orders point toward gaps in administrative communication that need addressing. Crucially, this move could mark a systemic shift where academic environments prioritize safety without undermining legitimate student representation needs-a balance critical for long-term institutional harmony.

Read More: Calcutta HC’s Union Room Directive