CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Sagar: On one hand, the Modi government at the Centre is promoting the Indian yoga system across the world and framing policies to establish yoga as a core pillar of education. On the other hand, the administration of Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar, appears determined to erase the historical significance of yoga. In a controversial decision, the university administration has issued a notification to vacate the newly constructed “Maharshi Patanjali Bhavan”, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future of one of the oldest yoga departments in the country.
Purpose-Built Building Constructed with Special Funds
The department boasts a glorious history. It was established in 1959, and in 1980, the country’s first PhD in Yoga was launched from this very institution. After functioning for years in small rooms, the then Ministry of Human Resource Development allocated a special grant of ₹12 crore in 2015–16, recognizing the importance of yoga education. Using this grant, the grand building was constructed in 2021 to provide researchers with international-level facilities. However, on January 8, the university administration ordered the building to be vacated.
How Will Practical Training Be Possible in the Old Building?
The administration now intends to shift the Yoga Department to the old Computer Science building, which suffers from a severe shortage of space. At present, around 150 students from Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Banaras, and several other states are enrolled in the department. Students and faculty argue that yoga is a practical discipline that requires a peaceful environment and large halls. Due to the lack of adequate space in the old Computer Science building, not only regular classes but even the conduct of examinations would become impossible.
Memorandum Submitted to MP, Vice-Chancellor Remains Silent
In protest against this administrative move, the department’s faculty members, research scholars, and students jointly submitted a memorandum to the local Member of Parliament, Lata Wankhede, urging intervention to halt a decision that goes against the intent of the Central Government. Department Head Prof. B. I. Guru stated that the building was constructed specifically for the Yoga Department using a special budget, and vacating it is unjustified. After issuing the order, In-Charge Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yashwant Thakur has maintained silence on this sensitive issue.
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