Assam: Residents, alumni demand revival of Bajali College under Bhattadev University

Bajali: The demand for the revival of Bajali College has gained attention in Pathsala as residents, former students, intellectuals, and community leaders appeal to restore the institution’s original status.

Administrative changes and the relocation of infrastructure over the years have affected the functioning of the 70-year-old college.

Established in 1955 through contributions and voluntary labor from the local agrarian community, Bajali College developed into a well-regarded center of higher education.

Farmers, traders, teachers, and students all contributed to the initial funds. Over the decades, the college produced several notable scholars, educators, and professionals.

In 2017, the Assam Government upgraded Bajali College into Bhattadev University under the Bhattadev University Act, 2017.

The first vice-chancellor took office in 2019, with the expectation that the transformation into a university would enhance educational opportunities while maintaining the college’s academic functions.

The establishment of the new Bhattadev University campus at a different site in Bajali resulted in the original college campus no longer serving as the main academic center.

This shift removed regular academic activity from the town center.

Residents and organizations have submitted appeals to the State Government to reinstate Bajali College as a constituent college under Bhattadev University.

Multiple organizations, educators, alumni groups, and local citizens have actively participated in this movement.

A delegation led by Patacharkuchi MLA and Cabinet Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass met with Education Minister Ranoj Pegu at the Assam Legislative Assembly.

The delegation included Assam Saurav awardee Kishan Roy, retired principal Murari Mohan Das, social worker Basanta Kumar Sarma, and members of the Pathsala Bazaar Committee.

They requested that the historic Bajali College be recognized as a constituent college under the university and that academic activity be restored to the original campus.

The Education Minister stated that the matter would be examined and committed to visiting Bajali to discuss the issue with the university administration and local stakeholders.

Former Bhattadev University vice-chancellor Bhaudutta Deka noted that decisions regarding constituent colleges are made by the university’s executive council, and the old campus could be used for academic purposes in the future, particularly for the Arts stream.

Residents of Bajali emphasize maintaining academic activities at the original campus to preserve its educational role in the region.