Doon University students on Wednesday continued their protest on the third consecutive day against State Government’s recent decision to change the name of the University to Maharshi Valmiki Doon University on campus.
Dozens of university students protested against the state government’s decision to change the university’s name to Maharishi Valmiki University calling it a political stunt. Students carried out candle march from protest site to Gandhi Park in the evening. Aditi Rawat, MSc (Economics) student of the university said, “We are protesting against cabinet’s decision to change Doon University's name. Students want that the name of the university to remain unchanged.”
She further said, “Students want to know why they are being kept in uncertainty regarding the name of their university. Why was such a decision taken just ahead of the lok Sabha electionsIJ Cabinet has decided it without proper notification to authorities and students.”
Rawat said that students have nothing against Maharshi Valmiki, but only they want the original name of the university to stay. Since students of the university respect Maharshi Valmiki, they have suggested the establishment of a research chair in his name or naming any stadium or newly constructed building after him.
According to her, students have given a memorandum to Doon University administration and will give a proper memorandum regarding the same to CM after a proper meeting with Vice Chancellor, Doon University. “We have decided to intensify our protest by boycotting academic activities from Thursday if government does not withdraw its decision without delay,” she warned.