Jan Sanskriti Manch (JSM) has issued a statement expressing solidarity with students of the College of Arts and Crafts, University of Lucknow, who have been protesting over issues related to infrastructure, academic resources, and institutional functioning.
In its statement, the organization said that the current condition of the college is adversely affecting art education and alleged that the absence of basic facilities, along with what it described as administrative inaction, is impacting students’ academic environment.
JSM further claimed that the issue reflects broader concerns regarding the treatment of art and cultural education within public institutions.
The organization also raised concerns about the administration’s response to student protests. It alleged that students have faced intimidation and limited avenues for dialogue, including reported instances where their concerns were addressed through disciplinary mechanisms rather than direct engagement.
According to JSM, the reported refusal of the Principal to meet students and suggestions that students consider private institutions indicate what it described as a lack of accountability.
The group expressed support for the students’ demand for a Joint Monitoring Committee with elected student representatives, stating that such a mechanism could improve transparency and institutional accountability.
JSM also criticised the reported collection of lab fees in the absence of adequate facilities, calling it an unfair burden on students, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds.
In its statement, the organization urged the university administration to initiate dialogue with students, address infrastructure concerns in a time-bound manner, and ensure that student grievances are handled through participatory processes.
The organization added that it views the issue as part of a broader concern regarding student participation and academic conditions in universities.