Guwahati, 15th May: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has vehemently opposed the outsourcing of Cotton University’s properties, issuing a directive to halt such activities. Sarma emphasized the university’s rich legacy and asserted that the Assam Government would not permit the outsourcing of its properties to private entities or organizations. He instructed university authorities to immediately cease any ongoing endeavors in this regard.
In a tweet, Sarma underscored Cotton College University’s significance, stating, “Cotton College University carries the rich legacy of Cotton College. The Assam Government will not allow outsourcing its properties to any private individuals or organizations. The University authority must stop any such exercise immediately.”
This decision follows reports that Cotton University was considering leasing out its land to generate revenue, prompting the formation of a panel to explore space allocations within the university premises.
Responding to the controversy, the Registrar of Cotton University clarified in a press release that recent notifications regarding the constitution of a Standing Committee were misinterpreted. The university reiterated its commitment to student welfare and academic integrity, denying any intention to cause confusion or alarm among the public.
Established in 1901 by Sir Henry Stedman Cotton, Cotton College holds the distinction of being the oldest institute of higher education in Assam and Northeast India. It became a constituent college of Gauhati University in 1948 and later a part of Cotton College State University in 2011. The Cotton University Act of 2017 was enacted to address issues between the college and the university.
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