Student Groups Clash at Lucknow University During Memorial March
Lucknow University witnessed a tense confrontation on Saturday. Members of the Birsa Ambedkar Phule Students' Association (BAPSA) and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) clashed violently. The incident disrupted campus peace and required police intervention.
Peaceful March Turns Violent
BAPSA organized a peaceful march to mark the 10th death anniversary of Rohith Vemula. Students began their procession from the Tagore library. They planned to move towards the BR Ambedkar statue in front of Malviya hall.
Near gate 11, ABVP activists entered the procession. This intrusion sparked immediate scuffles. Students from both sides exchanged blows in the ensuing chaos.
Police and University Authorities Intervene
University police and members of the proctorial board rushed to the scene. They worked quickly to control the volatile situation. Their intervention prevented further escalation of violence.
BAPSA Member Accuses Opponents of Silencing Dalit Voices
Amitesh Pal, a BAPSA member, spoke out about the incident. He claimed their students faced physical attacks while protesting caste-based oppression. Pal argued such acts represent attempts to silence Dalit students on campus.
ABVP Leader Blames Provocative Behavior
Pratyush Pandey, president of ABVP's Lucknow University unit, offered a different perspective. He accused BAPSA members of deliberate provocation. Pandey said their actions disrupted campus harmony and triggered the argument that escalated into physical conflict.
University Proctor Calls for Dialogue Over Aggression
Proctor Rakesh Dwivedi addressed the concerning incident. He urged all student groups to follow proper protest protocols. Dwivedi emphasized resolving differences through dialogue rather than aggression.
Background: Rohith Vemula's Legacy
Rohith Vemula was a 26-year-old PhD student at the University of Hyderabad. His death by suicide in January 2016 sparked nationwide outrage. The tragedy highlighted persistent caste-based discrimination in India's higher education institutions.
The clash at Lucknow University underscores ongoing tensions around caste issues on Indian campuses. University authorities now face the challenge of maintaining peace while allowing legitimate student expression.
