Debate Erupts Over Potential Closure of Kotli College in Mandi District

The proposed closure of Government Degree College in Kotli has sparked significant debate among educators, activists, and local residents in Mandi district. Critics argue that shutting down the college would severely limit educational opportunities for rural youth, particularly affecting girls and economically disadvantaged families. Former Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Anupama Singh and social worker Bhaskar Thakur have voiced their concerns, emphasizing the need for investment in the college rather than closure. As the issue resurfaces, questions arise about the local government's commitment to education and rural development. The implications of the closure could force students to travel long distances for higher education, further complicating access for many families. This situation has led to a growing call for clarity and action from local authorities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 12, 2026, 18:27 IST

Concerns Rise Over Government Degree College's Future

Munish Sood
Mandi

The potential shutdown of Government Degree College in Kotli has reignited a significant political and public discourse in Mandi district. Educators, social activists, and community members are questioning why an institution meant to support rural youth is facing closure.

Prof. Anupama Singh, a former Pro-Vice Chancellor and respected academic, has labeled this decision as a grave injustice to the local youth. She emphasized that closing the college would negatively impact hundreds of students, especially girls and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who rely on nearby educational facilities for higher education.

Singh pointed out that the issue transcends the mere closure of a college; it represents a reduction in educational opportunities for an entire community. She argued that instead of shutting down the institution due to declining enrolment, efforts should focus on enhancing it through new courses, improved infrastructure, and better academic offerings.

The debate has now shifted from education to politics, with residents raising a critical question: What actions were taken in the past three and a half years to address the low enrolment issue?

Local voices contend that the college has not seen any significant growth, professional courses, or skill development programs that could attract students. Consequently, many have chosen to attend institutions that offer better academic and career opportunities.

Critics argue that the state government cannot evade accountability by citing low attendance when it has failed to invest in making the college viable and competitive.

This issue has gained further sensitivity as a similar notification regarding the college's closure emerged last year. At that time, local MLA Anil Sharma claimed that his intervention had led to the reversal of the decision, ensuring the college's continued operation.

That assurance had provided relief to students, parents, and community members.

Now, with the closure threat resurfacing, new questions are being raised throughout the constituency.

What has changed in the past year? Why is the same threat reappearing despite previous assurances? If the issue was resolved, who allowed the situation to regress?

Another pressing question from residents is: Why has the local MLA remained silent while the future of a crucial educational institution hangs in the balance?

The lack of a strong public response has heightened anxiety among students and parents who are seeking clarity about their future.

The practical implications of the college's closure are alarming. Students from Kotli and nearby villages may have to travel 25 to 30 kilometers or more daily to access higher education. For many rural families already grappling with rising costs, this added burden could be unmanageable.

For female students, the situation is even more challenging. In numerous villages, the proximity of a college often dictates whether a girl can pursue education beyond high school. Increased travel distances may force some families to withdraw their daughters from higher studies altogether.

Social worker Bhaskar Thakur from Kotli has voiced his concerns, describing the proposed closure as a betrayal of rural youth.

“Students did not abandon Kotli College overnight. For years, the institution lacked the courses, facilities, and academic opportunities necessary to attract and retain students. Instead of bolstering the college, authorities allowed it to decline and are now using low enrolment as a justification for closure. This is unjust to the youth in the area,” he stated.

Thakur further noted that the closure would disproportionately impact students from lower-income families.

“Not every family can afford to send their children 25 to 30 kilometers away for higher education. Many students, particularly girls from remote villages, may be forced to abandon their studies. A college in a rural area is not just a building; it represents a pathway to opportunity, empowerment, and social advancement,” he added.

Reflecting on last year’s developments, Thakur questioned why the issue has resurfaced despite assurances that it had been resolved.

“If the threat to the college was eliminated last year, why has it returned? The people of Kotli deserve clear answers. Students and parents should not have to live in constant uncertainty about their future,” he said.

Prof. Anupama Singh has called on the government to reconsider its decision and engage in meaningful discussions with students, parents, and local stakeholders before making any irreversible choices.

As public concern intensifies, the Kotli College situation is increasingly perceived not just as an educational issue but as a measure of the government’s commitment to rural development and youth empowerment.

For many residents, the matter extends beyond the college itself.

It raises the question of whether rural students are being made to suffer due to years of governmental neglect.

As the controversy escalates, one question continues to echo throughout Kotli and its neighboring areas:

Was Kotli College allowed to deteriorate so that it could ultimately be closed, or did those responsible for its protection simply fail in their duties?