Protests Erupt at Acharya Nagarjuna University Over Removal of YSR's Name from Engineering College
Tension gripped the campus of Acharya Nagarjuna University in Guntur on Saturday as protests erupted over the controversial removal of former chief minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy's name from the university's engineering college. The situation escalated quickly, drawing significant attention from political leaders and student activists alike.
YSRCP Leaders Express Strong Anger and Demand Immediate Restoration
Leaders from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) voiced intense anger over the decision to strip YSR's name from the engineering college. They demanded an immediate reversal of the move, emphasizing the legacy and contributions of the former chief minister to the state's education sector. The party's stance was clear: restore the name without delay to honor YSR's memory and his role in advancing higher education in Andhra Pradesh.
Confrontation at Campus Entrance as Party Leader Attempts to Submit Petition
When YSRCP leader Ambati Murali Krishna attempted to submit a formal petition to the vice-chancellor, seeking clarification and a reversal of the decision, the situation turned volatile. Activists from the Telugu Nadu Students Federation tried to obstruct his car at the campus entrance, leading to a tense standoff. The confrontation highlighted the deep-seated emotions surrounding the issue, with both sides firmly entrenched in their positions.
Police Intervention Brings Situation Under Control
In response to the escalating tensions, police personnel swiftly intervened to bring the situation under control. Their presence helped prevent the confrontation from spiraling into violence, ensuring that the campus remained secure. The timely action by law enforcement allowed for a more orderly resolution to the immediate crisis, though underlying grievances persisted.
Party Leaders Meet Vice-Chancellor and Submit Formal Petition
Following the initial confrontation, YSRCP leaders proceeded to meet with the vice-chancellor of Acharya Nagarjuna University. During the meeting, they submitted a detailed petition demanding the restoration of YSR's name to the engineering college. The leaders emphasized the importance of this symbolic gesture in preserving the former chief minister's legacy and called for a prompt review of the decision.
The incident at Acharya Nagarjuna University underscores the ongoing political and emotional significance of Y S Rajasekhara Reddy's name in Andhra Pradesh. As debates over historical recognition and educational branding continue, this protest serves as a reminder of the powerful connections between politics, memory, and institutional identity in the region.
