Jadavpur University campus security has become a matter of urgent concern after recent tragic events highlighted the gaps in safety infrastructure and monitoring. The university administration has officially written to the West Bengal Higher Education Department, urging the government to sanction funds and grant approvals for strengthening its security measures.
The proposal includes installation of 70 additional CCTV cameras across its main and Salt Lake campuses, deployment of 32 security personnel, and engaging ex-servicemen through the Rajya Sainik Board. With costs running into ₹68 lakh for surveillance equipment and more than ₹7.5 lakh per month for manpower, the university has stressed that student safety cannot be compromised and requires immediate government support.
Why Campus Security Became a Priority
The debate around Jadavpur University’s safety infrastructure sharpened after the unfortunate drowning of student Anamika Mondal in a pond on the campus. The incident raised questions about inadequate fencing, insufficient lighting, and lack of real-time surveillance in high-risk areas.
This tragedy led to strong student reactions, media focus, and ultimately judicial intervention. The Calcutta High Court directed the university to implement safety upgrades without delay. While JU has taken steps through its Executive Council, it insists that long-term costs—especially manpower deployment—should be borne by the state.
Measures Proposed by the University
Jadavpur University’s Executive Council has laid out a comprehensive security plan:
- CCTV Expansion: 70 new cameras—50 for the main campus and 20 for Salt Lake campus—to cover blind spots, isolated areas, and entry/exit gates.
- Security Staff Deployment: 32 additional guards for night patrol, gate monitoring, and water body surveillance.
- Rajya Sainik Board Involvement: Hiring trained ex-servicemen for discipline-oriented supervision.
- Administrative Coordination: Request for the Higher Education Department’s approval to implement these measures smoothly.
The university argues that such measures will not only prevent tragedies but also instill greater confidence among parents and guardians who entrust their children to the institution.
Jadavpur University Campus Security: Financial Implications
The cost estimates submitted by JU highlight both one-time and recurring expenditures:
- ₹68 lakh for procurement and installation of cameras, wiring, monitoring stations, and maintenance contracts.
- ₹7.5 lakh per month as wages for the additional 32 security personnel, which translates into nearly ₹90 lakh annually.
For a public university already grappling with resource limitations, such recurring expenses cannot be absorbed from internal budgets without affecting academics and research. Hence, JU has appealed to the state to share the responsibility.
Legal and Regulatory Dimensions
The request for financial assistance is not just administrative—it is backed by legal obligations:
- The Calcutta High Court judgment makes it clear that the university is accountable for ensuring student safety.
- Under UGC regulations, universities are required to provide adequate safety and infrastructure to protect students. (UGC official website)
- The involvement of the State Higher Education Department is critical, as funding for additional manpower generally falls within the scope of state responsibilities.
This legal framework strengthens JU’s position that it cannot act alone in sustaining large-scale security initiatives.
Broader Impact on Students and Staff
Improved Jadavpur University campus security is not just about surveillance but about creating a safe academic environment. The proposed measures will:
- Reduce risks in vulnerable areas like ponds, boundary walls, and dimly lit pathways.
- Encourage female students to feel safer during evening classes and late-night research hours.
- Prevent unauthorized entry and trespassing by outsiders.
- Enhance emergency response time in case of accidents or crimes.
- Boost the overall reputation of the university as a responsible institution.
Challenges in Implementation
Even if the state approves funds, challenges remain:
- Procurement Delays: Government sanctioning, tendering, and installation could take months.
- Maintenance Costs: Cameras and surveillance systems require ongoing servicing.
- Manpower Management: Integrating Rajya Sainik Board staff with existing security teams may need clear protocols.
- Monitoring Effectiveness: Cameras must be actively monitored; otherwise, incidents could still go unnoticed.
- Campus Layout: Large areas, including water bodies and isolated lanes, require specialized strategies for surveillance.
Comparisons with Other Institutions
Other universities in India have upgraded security after crises. For instance:
- Delhi University expanded CCTV coverage after multiple theft and harassment cases.
- Banaras Hindu University installed surveillance and fencing after protests over student safety.
- Private institutions often employ ex-servicemen and maintain high-tech surveillance as part of their infrastructure.
Jadavpur University’s approach, if implemented, could serve as a model for state-run institutions across West Bengal.
Government’s Role and Next Steps
The ball now lies in the court of the West Bengal Higher Education Department. As per JU’s communication:
- On September 15, 2025, JU formally reminded the government about the urgency.
- The department has already asked JU to submit a copy of the High Court judgment that mentions state responsibility for financing guards.
- Once verified, the government will need to approve both the CCTV installation and staff deployment budgets.
External policy references:
- West Bengal Higher Education Department – official website for state policy on universities.
- Rajya Sainik Board – under Ministry of Defence, which outlines the role of ex-servicemen in civilian security duties.
Conclusion
The urgent appeal by Jadavpur University reflects a larger truth—campus security in India cannot be taken lightly. The drowning incident acted as a wake-up call, reminding stakeholders that safety lapses have human costs.
By seeking funds for CCTV expansion, security personnel, and Rajya Sainik Board involvement, JU is attempting to transform its campus into a safer, more accountable space. But the effectiveness of this plan hinges on timely support from the state government.
Strengthening Jadavpur University campus security is not just about preventing another tragedy; it is about restoring trust, fulfilling legal obligations, and setting an example for institutions nationwide.
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