Hyderabad: A peaceful Palestine Solidarity march organised by the Students’ Union at EFLU’s Sagar Square on Tuesday evening escalated into violence after members of the ABVP confronted participants, students alleged.
According to students, following the dispersal of the demonstration, ABVP members gathered at the site, raised slogans, and tore down the remaining Palestine flags and posters. This act of vandalism prompted students from various groups to confront them, resulting in a standoff during which ABVP members allegedly began manhandling opposing students.
Protesting students claimed that when police arrived, they sided with ABVP, ignoring the initial vandalism and assault, and ordered the removal of all Palestine protest materials. With police support, ABVP cadres reportedly dragged a protester wearing a Keffiyah, who was later detained.
In response, the student collective marched toward the main gate to protest police bias, leading to a severe escalation. Students accused police officers of using excessive force, including manhandling female student leaders such as the Union Vice President and Joint Secretary, using derogatory language, and threatening individuals with First Information Reports.
“One officer took out and waved a gun while dispersing the students,” a student told the media.
Police subsequently deployed forces across the campus, effectively imposing a curfew as students were herded back to their hostels.
“The aggressive police action and threats of future legal charges have left the student body in a palpable state of fear and intimidation, facing what they perceive as targeted repression against their right to protest,” a student said.