Kailashahar Ramkrishna Mahavidyalaya, one of Tripura’s oldest and most respected institutions, is currently embroiled in controversy over allegations of charging students a ‘cultural fee’ during the ongoing admission process. The controversy has sparked outrage among students and has raised concerns about the administration of the college.
According to reports, incoming male and female students were allegedly being charged Rs. 100 under the guise of a cultural fee, despite the state government’s directive for free admissions for female students this year. Students in college uniforms, purportedly linked with ABVP, were said to have collected the amount at help desks while issuing receipts.
The issue quickly gained attention on social media, leading to protests by student organizations SFI and NSUI. These organizations demanded the immediate refund of the collected amount and condemned the collection of money in violation of government orders.
The situation escalated on June 21 during the admission process for the science stream, with ABVP accusing SFI members of vandalizing the college council room. Kailashahar police intervened following reports of unrest.
ABVP’s district convenor denied collecting any fees from students and accused SFI of orchestrating the vandalism to disrupt the admission process. SFI, on the other hand, alleged that students under the ABVP banner extorted money from students and staged the vandalism to divert attention.
The absence of Principal Dr. Pinaki Pal following the incident has raised concerns about the administrative vacuum and lawlessness on campus. Some sources from the college office warn that if decisive action is not taken soon, the situation could deteriorate further.
In contrast, Mohanpur Swami Vivekananda Mahavidyalaya has been praised for its harmonious academic culture, where students and faculty warmly welcome newcomers and help them through the admission process with a smile. This example has led many to call for Kailashahar College to take inspiration from Swami Vivekananda College in creating an ideal educational environment based on values and behavior.
As the controversy at Kailashahar Ramkrishna Mahavidyalaya continues to unfold, concerned parents and citizens are calling for accountability and transparency from the college administration. The need for a peaceful and conducive academic environment has become paramount, as the college grapples with political rivalries and administrative challenges.
