Srinagar: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), a prominent civil society body working on sustainable urban planning and environmental protection in Jammu and Kashmir, has voiced strong objections to the proposed use of SP College Ground in Srinagar for a private commercial exhibition. In a statement issued today, EPG expressed “deep concern” over what it termed a blatant misuse of an educational and recreational facility.
According to EPG, Minds-Media Management Pvt. Ltd. has been granted permission to organize a three-day event titled “WAC – World of Architecture and Construction Expo” at the historic SP College Ground from May 3 to May 5, 2025. The organization claims it became aware of the event through public advertisements and has since sought immediate intervention from the authorities to prevent it from taking place.
Misappropriation of Educational Spaces
In its statement, EPG described the decision to allow a commercial exhibition on the college grounds as a “blatant misappropriation” of a space primarily intended for educational and recreational activities. “SP College Ground is an educational asset and a sports facility where thousands of youth regularly come to play,” the statement read. “It is meant for the physical development and well-being of students, not as a venue for profit-driven commercial events.”
EPG warned that commercial use of the facility would deprive students of their right to physical activity spaces, particularly at a time when Srinagar’s green and recreational zones are already under tremendous pressure due to rapid urbanization.
Risks to Infrastructure and Public Resources
One of the key concerns raised by EPG pertains to the potential damage to the ground’s turf and infrastructure as a result of the heavy footfall, vehicular movement, and the setting up of temporary exhibition structures. The group argued that any restoration and rehabilitation work required post-event would have to be funded through public money, while the private organizers would reap the financial benefits.
“This will set a dangerous precedent for the commercialization of educational institutions’ infrastructure,” EPG cautioned. “Once such practices are normalized, it will be increasingly difficult to safeguard these vital public spaces from further exploitation.”
Environmental Concerns
EPG also raised environmental red flags about the event, citing the additional burden it would place on the college ground, which serves as one of the few remaining green spaces in Srinagar’s congested urban landscape.
The group highlighted the expected generation of waste, increased vehicular emissions, and noise pollution during the event as key environmental issues. “This ground is not just a sports facility; it is a green lung space for the city,” the statement emphasized. “Turning it into a commercial venue completely undermines its ecological function.”
Questions on Approval Process
Expressing bewilderment over the decision, EPG questioned how permission was granted to a private commercial entity when numerous alternative venues suited for such events exist in Srinagar.
“This decision reflects either a serious lack of judgment or, more concerning, a disregard for the sanctity of educational spaces,” EPG said. The group demanded transparency in the approval process and raised concerns about possible procedural lapses or irregularities in granting the permission.
In response to the unfolding situation, EPG has demanded the immediate revocation of any permission granted to Minds-Media Management Pvt. Ltd. for the event. It has also called for:
A transparent inquiry into how and why the permission was granted.
Clear guidelines and regulations that prohibit the use of educational institution grounds for commercial activities.
Accountability for officials responsible for permitting such usage.
EPG has formally communicated its concerns to key decision-makers in the Jammu & Kashmir Government. Letters have been sent to Hon’ble Education Minister Sakina Itoo, Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner for Education Mr. Shantmanu, and other relevant officials. In these communications, EPG has urged immediate intervention to prevent what it views as a dangerous precedent.
“We have urged the authorities to act before this opens the floodgates to similar misuse of institutional properties in the future,” EPG said.
The group warned that failure to act in this instance could encourage similar commercial exploitation of other college and university grounds across Jammu and Kashmir. “We risk seeing our academic spaces transformed into commercial venues, undermining their educational purpose and community value,” EPG stated.
The Sri Pratap College Ground in Srinagar has historically been a recreational and sports facility for students and the wider local community. It has served as an important venue for physical activities and sports events, contributing to the health and well-being of thousands of students over the decades.
As public awareness grows over the issue, EPG has stated its intent to mobilize civil society organizations, parents’ groups, and student bodies to campaign for the protection of public educational spaces from commercial encroachment.
“We will not stand by while our children are deprived of safe, open spaces for recreation,” said a representative of EPG. “This issue is not just about one college ground—it’s about safeguarding the future of our educational infrastructure and public spaces.”
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir regarding EPG’s appeal. However, sources indicate that the matter is under review following the group’s formal submission.
EPG remains hopeful that the authorities will take swift corrective action to prevent what it sees as an ill-advised and harmful decision, ensuring that SP College Ground remains a space dedicated to education, recreation, and community well-being.
