In Tikapur, the ambitious expansion of Far Western University has hit a roadblock as the campus finds itself embroiled in a land encroachment controversy. Initially allocated 380 bighas of land by the Tikapur Development Committee during the fiscal year 2062 BS, the university has only managed to utilize 80 bighas so far. This revelation comes as the campus administration acknowledges encroaching upon an additional 300 bighas, attributing the encroachments to squatters and locals.
Dhawindra Rawal, Chief of Tikapur Multiple Campus, disclosed that encroachment began in the fiscal year 2063 BS, resulting in approximately 1,500 households erecting makeshift huts on the campus land. "Despite our efforts to run agricultural programs, the lack of space for practical sessions remains a challenge," expressed Chief Rawal, urging both local and central governments to intervene. However, no action has been taken thus far.
Despite several dialogues involving university officials and local authorities, efforts to reclaim the encroached land have yielded only partial success.
Vice Chancellor Karna Thapa voiced concerns over the encroachment hindering agricultural science programs, stressing the potential of the university-owned land for expanding agricultural initiatives and student development. Thapa urged for swift action during a recent graduation ceremony, appealing to Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda' and the university chancellor to initiate the land reclamation process.
Local authorities have accused politically influential figures of exploiting the encroached land for personal gain. They emphasize the urgency of legally reclaiming and utilizing the land in accordance with the university's master plan.
Mayor Ram Lal Dagaura Tharu highlighted the challenge posed by long-standing settlements on the encroached land. "Residents have filed applications with the Land Commission," mentioned Tharu, "yet political protection shields those encroaching upon the land." He proposed alternative land management for landless individuals and urged all political parties to unite in resolving the issue.
