Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 22: Paramedical students of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar today staged a protest, alleging that they are being charged higher fees than MBBS and nursing students despite lacking adequate infrastructure and staff.
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A group of students assembled within the college premises, accusing the administration of failing to address long-pending grievances, particularly their demand to align the fee structure with other Government Medical Institutions across J&K.
The protesting students said they are paying over Rs 60,000 for a three-year course-far higher than the nearly Rs 18,000 charged from nursing students for the same duration, and even more than what MBBS students reportedly pay.
“We are being charged high fees, but basic facilities are missing. There is only one classroom where first, second, and third-year students are accommodated together. There are no hostel facilities, and we are struggling,” said Azmat, a second-year student.
Students also pointed to disparities with other institutions.
Maryam, another second-year student, said the fee at GMC Srinagar is significantly higher than elsewhere.
“At Government Medical College Anantnag, the fee is around Rs 20,000, while at Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences it is Rs 18,000 and refundable. Here, we pay Rs 65,000 with no stipend or refund, and the infrastructure is poor,” she said.
She added that classes are often held in a hall at the nursing college with damaged furniture, and that there is a shortage of dedicated paramedical faculty.
“Some teachers are from the Nursing Department, and there is no clarity about our academic structure. We are even sent for postings without completing our syllabus,” she said.
Students further alleged that key assurances made at the time of admission-such as hostel accommodation and transport facilities for clinical postings-have not been fulfilled, forcing many to live in rented accommodation and increasing their financial burden.
Meanwhile, officials told Excelsior that a committee has been constituted to look into the matter. “The issues raised by the students are under examination, and necessary steps will be taken to address their grievances,” an official said.
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