- Principal alleges Azan disrupts studies and exams
Bhopal: Hamidia College, a prominent educational institution in Bhopal, is currently at the center of a new controversy. Students and faculty members have raised concerns about security, discipline, and the academic environment due to a mosque located within the college premises.
Following these complaints, Dr. Pushplata Chokse, the college Principal, has lodged an official complaint with Anupam Rajan, the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Higher Education Department. She stated that the Azan (call to prayer) from the nearby mosque disrupts students during examinations, a problem that has been particularly noticeable during competitive exams like NEET.
Concerns over external access and security
Students attending Hamidia College also allege that the mosque experiences increased foot traffic from external individuals during prayer times, compromising the college’s security. Furthermore, they claim this influx disrupts critical activities like classroom instruction and examinations. The College Principal specifically brought these issues to light during a recent Higher Education Department video conference.
Call for clarity on land ownership and security measures
According to the Principal, one of the mosque’s gates opens directly onto the college grounds, facilitating unchecked access for outsiders. This, she argues, negatively impacts campus discipline and security. Dr. Chokse has formally requested that the administration clarify whether the mosque is situated on college land. If the land is indeed owned by the college, she has sought permission to develop it into a sports ground.
The situation highlights a growing tension between religious practices and the academic environment, prompting calls for immediate intervention from educational authorities.
