Jaipur: Students at Rajasthan University staged a six-day hunger strike demanding the establishment of a dedicated Department of Rajasthani Language and Culture. The protest was led by student Pooja Shekhawat and Lokendra Singh, highlighting concerns over the neglect of the language, high fees, and the absence of an independent department.
The students pointed out that despite Rajasthan University being the largest university in the state, it still lacks a separate department for Rajasthani language, while other universities offer structured courses. They noted that the study center established in 1975 was meant only for research in Hindi and Rajasthani history, not for regular academic programs. However, the fee charged at this center is around ₹55,000, significantly higher than the approximately ₹5,000 charged by other language departments, reflecting clear disparity.
In support of the demand, a discussion session was organized at Jawahar Kala Kendra by noted Rajasthani poet Seema Rathore ‘Shailja’, who has been actively advocating for the recognition of the language. The session saw participation from literary figures and media representatives, who expressed solidarity with the students’ cause.
Prominent literary personalities including Kalyan Singh Shekhawat Rajnota, Bhagwan Sahay Pareek, Kailash Dan Kaviya, and Prahlad Kumawat ‘Chanchal’ emphasized the urgent need for a dedicated department to promote Rajasthani language and culture.
Students participating in the hunger strike urged the university administration not to ignore their concerns and to take immediate steps toward establishing the department. They asserted that the movement will continue until their demand is fulfilled.