As part of the security overhaul, 40 retired defence personnel—20 women and 20 men—will be deployed across the university
In a move to enhance campus security, Burdwan University (BU), West Bengal, has approved a plan to introduce smart card entry in hostel zones and deploy retired lady jawans for security duties. The decision, endorsed by the university’s executive council, aims to strengthen surveillance and prevent unauthorised access.
Under the new system, students residing in hostels and professors heading to their departments will be required to punch in their smart cards before entering the premises. University officials believe this measure will curb infiltrators and ensure greater safety within the campus.
Deployment Of Retired Jawans
As part of the security overhaul, 40 retired defence personnel—20 women and 20 men—will be deployed across the university, including in girls’ hostels and the administrative campus. Discussions on the matter have already taken place between BU officials and the District Sainik Board, which oversees the welfare of ex-servicemen.
BU Vice-Chancellor Dr Shankar Kumar Nath defended the initiative, stating that ensuring foolproof security for the university office and student hostels is a top priority.
Mixed Reactions From Stakeholders
The introduction of smart cards has received a positive response from the students’ union, but faculty members have expressed concerns over excessive surveillance.
Bhaskar Goswami, Secretary of the Burdwan University Teachers’ Association (BUTA), voiced his reservations, arguing that universities should remain open spaces for higher education.
“Excessive surveillance is not a healthy culture, and that’s why none of the universities have adopted such a practice,” Goswami said. “The university should focus more on academic excellence rather than intensifying security measures.”
Despite the criticism, BU remains committed to tightening security. The first phase of implementation will focus on introducing smart cards while deploying retired jawans across key locations.
Currently, Burdwan University has 163 security personnel overseeing the campus. With the new measures, the university aims to create a more secure and controlled environment while balancing security with academic freedom.
