Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) protested Tuesday at Azim Premji University in Bengaluru. The ABVP alleged an event at the university promoted separatism in Jammu and Kashmir. Protesters smeared the university’s nameplate with black ink and chanted slogans.
ABVP Accusations
The ABVP claimed the event was part of an agenda to divide India. They specifically targeted an event organized by a group called Spark. This group, linked to the All India Students’ Association (AISA), allegedly promoted anti-national sentiments. The ABVP stated Spark promoted the idea that Jammu and Kashmir is not part of India.
A poster shared by the ABVP indicated the event focused on the Kunan-Poshpora incident. The poster described this as an alleged mass rape on February 23-24, 1991. It noted 35 years later, no convictions have occurred. The poster also described the event as an instance of violence inflicted on people in Kashmir.
University Response
Azim Premji University stated it had not authorized any such event. The university cited strict procedures for campus events. They confirmed the alleged event, reportedly planned by a small student group, did not take place.
The university condemned the protest. They reported approximately 20 individuals forced entry onto the campus around 6 p.m. Tuesday. These individuals shouted slogans, vandalized property, and assaulted security guards and students, the university stated. The institution reported the incident to the Sarjapura police station.
The university emphasized that the protesters were demonstrating about an event they believed was happening. They reiterated that no such event was authorized and that the university follows strict approval processes. The university strongly condemned the disruption and violence.
Protester Claims and Police Action
ABVP protesters claimed they were detained inside the campus. They alleged they were assaulted. One protester stated that students holding the Indian flag attacked ABVP activists with slippers. The ABVP vowed to continue protests until action is taken against the university.
Bengaluru Rural District Police reported taking protesters into custody as a precaution. They stated measures were in place to maintain law and order. An investigation into the matter is ongoing.
ABVP activists also submitted a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah. They requested action against the event organizers. The ABVP demanded an immediate ban on AISA and its affiliated organizations. They also called for an inquiry into students and leaders organizing such events.