Al Falah University, which has grown from a dispensary established in 1997 to a prominent educational institution, currently offers a variety of medical courses to its students. Each day, the university enrolls approximately 150 to 200 MBBS students across five batches. Initially offering BTech programs beginning in 2003, the university began its journey toward greater academic distinction, obtaining university status in 2014, after which it expanded its course offerings to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
The university's operational management is overseen by the Al Falah Charitable Trust, and the current Vice-Chancellor is Dr. Bhupinder Kaur Anand, who also serves as the principal of the medical college. In recent years, particularly from 2019, the institution has focused on enhancing its medical education by introducing undergraduate and postgraduate programs specifically in the medical field, garnering an 'A' grade accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
Despite its academic successes, the recent arrest of Dr. Muzammil Ganai—who was taken into custody by the Jammu and Kashmir Police for possession of explosives—has sent ripples of concern throughout the university community. Students are expressing worries about their futures, noting that the reputation of their medical education may be jeopardized by these events. One MBBS student shared his apprehensions about finding employment, especially given the high costs associated with attending the university, which include fees of Rs. 1 crore for five years and a hostel fee of Rs. 3 lakh annually.
Interactions among faculty have also come under scrutiny. As per student accounts, Dr. Umar, who had minimal interactions with his classmates and was considered a professional educator, was notable for his reserved nature. Another student mentioned that Dr. Shaheen, who served as their MD in Pharmacology, had a regular teaching engagement while Dr. Umar often remained isolated. This dynamic raises questions about faculty collaboration within the university.
In light of the unsettling events, classes and examinations at Al Falah University have continued uninterrupted, reflecting the institution’s commitment to maintaining academic activities despite external challenges. A senior doctor from the college noted that many practitioners from Kashmir work within the affiliated hospital, contributing to a vibrant clinical environment for students.
Compounding the situation is the reaction of local landlords like Haji Madrasi, who expressed distress over the implications of the incident. Having rented out a room to Dr. Muzammil shortly before his arrest, he voiced regret regarding the vetting process, explaining that he had not performed due diligence as he typically accommodates outstation tenants. Madrasi revealed that two men had visited to clear items from Dr. Muzammil's room shortly before the arrest, further complicating the troubling narrative surrounding his tenancy.
As the university community grapples with the impact of these events, the broader ramifications for students and faculty alike remain to be seen. With ongoing instruction amidst these controversies, it is a challenging time for everyone associated with Al Falah University, and many are hopeful for clarity and a return to normalcy.