ANCSU flags delay in Kohima College girls hostel project, warns fund refund risk, urges government action accountability transparency
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DIMAPUR — The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) has expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the construction of a 100-bed girls’ hostel at Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Jotsoma, stating that the project has remained stagnant despite funds being released.
In a press release issued on Friday, the union stated that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding amounting to INR 3,52,68,650 had been approved for the project, with the first instalment of INR 1,05,80,595 released on April 12, 2023. However, it said that the necessary measures to ensure timely execution have not been undertaken over the past three years.
The ANCSU stated that the project was envisaged as a joint funding initiative involving the state government, the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), and the Higher Education department under a Project Implementing Committee. The state government was to contribute INR 2,47,31,350, bringing the total estimated cost to INR 6,00,00,000.
The union stated that the CSR assistance had been specifically sanctioned for the construction of the hostel within the approved financial framework, but observed that progress on the ground has remained unsatisfactory.
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It further stated that the continued delay in completion within the stipulated timeframe has now led the funding agency to initiate proceedings for the refund of the sanctioned amount.
Describing the situation as a serious concern, the ANCSU stated that failure to complete the construction or safeguard the sanctioned funds would amount to a lapse in responsibility, adding that it could undermine student welfare and raise concerns over the management of developmental projects in the state.
While maintaining that it remains committed to constructive dialogue, the union said continued inaction would compel the student community to respond through appropriate and democratic means.
It urged the state government and the authorities concerned to act with urgency, accountability and transparency to resolve the issue at the earliest, reiterating that the welfare of the student community cannot be compromised.