Srinagar, Aug 28: A large number of government degree colleges across Jammu and Kashmir are functioning without principals, crippling academic and administrative activities. Adding to the crisis, salaries of staff have not been released for the last three months, leaving employees demoralized.
Official sources said nearly 45 degree colleges are currently without regular principals and are being run on additional charge from nearby institutions, while around 10 colleges are completely headless with no DDO or principal to handle day-to-day affairs. “This vacuum has badly affected admissions, examinations, and developmental works. Files remain unattended and approvals delayed,” said an official from the Higher Education Department.
The situation is worst in the newly established colleges set up in 2019 to expand higher education in rural and semi-urban areas. Without leadership, many of these institutions are unable to provide even basic facilities. For instance, Government Degree College Frisal in Kulgam has been functioning without a principal for months, leading to stalled works and inability to use developmental funds.
Employees at GDC Baderwah in Jammu division voiced similar concerns. Locals say the absence of leadership has discouraged admissions. “Parents hesitate to send their wards to colleges where even salaries are delayed. How can students expect quality education?” asked a resident.
Faculty members said they have repeatedly raised the issue but no action has been taken. “We are working without salaries for three months. Our families are in distress,” said a group of teachers.
Educationists warn of long-term damage. “The colleges established in 2019 were meant to provide access to rural students. But without principals and functional administration, the very purpose is being defeated,” said noted educationist Gh Nabi Mir from Pulwama.
Students, employees, and residents have urged Higher Education Minister Sakina Itoo to intervene and ensure immediate appointment of regular principals and release of pending salaries. They cautioned that prolonged neglect would further weaken higher education in the Union Territory.
