GUWAHATI: The Cotton University Students' Union (CUSU) has expressed disappointment over the absence of a dedicated budget allocation for Cotton University in the Assam Budget, despite the state government announcing infrastructure funding for several other universities.
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In a statement issued on Friday, July 10, the union welcomed the government's decision to invest in the development and expansion of higher education institutions across Assam but questioned why Cotton University was excluded from the special allocation.
CUSU said the university has been grappling with infrastructure constraints for several years, including shortages of classrooms, examination halls, laboratories, research facilities, hostel accommodation, sports infrastructure and overall campus facilities. It added that while student enrolment has steadily increased over the years, the university's infrastructure has failed to keep pace.
Highlighting Cotton University's legacy, the union said the institution has played a significant role in Assam's higher education sector for more than a century and has produced several eminent academicians, scientists, writers, administrators, politicians and professionals.
The students' body urged the Assam Government to announce a dedicated infrastructure development package for the university, including funds for campus expansion, modern research centres, new hostels, and the strengthening of academic, sports and cultural infrastructure.
CUSU further warned that if its demands are not addressed, it would be compelled to launch democratic protests in support of the university's development.