A large number of students gathered in Islamabad to protest the ongoing crackdown on private hostels. The demonstration was organized by the Students Coordination Committee and drew participants from several educational institutions in the capital.
Student Leaders Speak Out
The protest was led by Youth Leader Society President Daniyal Abdullah, along with Tabish Hamid, Shahid Shah, and other representatives. Speakers said that hostel facilities are a fundamental right for non-local students.They highlighted that thousands of students from across Pakistan study in Islamabad’s universities. However, due to the limited capacity of on-campus hostels, many rely on private hostels for accommodation.
Crackdown on Private Hostels
Students alleged that the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has been sealing private hostels for the past month. They described the move as unfair and harmful to students, who already face high living costs in the city.
By the end of the protest, the Students Coordination Committee announced that negotiations with CDA officials and the district administration had been successful. Both sides reached a consensus on a sustainable solution, and the protest was called off peacefully.
The Bigger Picture
Islamabad has hundreds of hostels operating in residential areas. Local residents have often raised concerns, saying such activity disturbs neighborhoods. Under CDA bylaws, commercial businesses, including hostels, are not permitted in residential houses.
However, students argue that the real issue lies with universities, which have failed to build enough hostels to meet growing demand. As a result, private hostels remain the only option for most non-local students.
The agreement between students and authorities may provide temporary relief. Still, long-term solutions depend on expanding proper hostel facilities within universities.
