MANDI, December 13 (Munish Sood)
The controversial decision to transfer the Mandi Sardar Patel University (SPU) building in Sundernagar to Maharaja Lakshman Sen Memorial (MLSM) College reached a crucial juncture on Friday (December 13) as today’s deadline passed without the transfer being executed.
The directive, issued by the Directorate of Higher Education, had set this date for the SPU to hand over the building, but resistance from university officials and local representatives has stalled the process.
The building, constructed at a significant cost to support the SPU’s operations, became the subject of controversy when the government proposed its transfer to MLSM College to address the latter’s infrastructure needs. This decision was met with criticism as stakeholders argued that it would compromise the SPU’s future growth and academic resources.
Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and local MLA Anil Sharma have vocally opposed the move, emphasising the building’s importance to the SPU and accusing the government of undermining the institution. The proposal also drew protests from Sundernagar residents, who view the university as a cornerstone for the region’s educational development.
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla SPU chancellor
SPU administrators, unwilling to comply with the order, approached Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, who serves as the university’s chancellor. The Governor is reportedly reviewing the situation and may intervene directly, given the mounting political and public pressure.
The Mandi Municipal Corporation saw an unusual display of unity, with BJP and Congress councillors coming together to oppose the transfer. Mayor Virendra Bhatt Sharma led discussions, supported by Deputy Mayor Madhuri Kapoor and other councillors, who collectively vowed to protect SPU’s interests.
With the deadline now having passed, all eyes are on the Governor’s office for a potential resolution. The delay could result in a legal or administrative impasse, further intensifying the dispute. Meanwhile, MLSM College continues to push for additional infrastructure, citing the urgent need for space to accommodate its growing student population.
