Dr Hari Singh Gour varsity students accuse life-threatening attack by ABVP–RSS

A series of violent incidents at Dr Hari Singh Gour University in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, has raised serious concerns about campus safety after members of the All India Students’ Federation reported two life-threatening attacks within five days by individuals they said were associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

Students stated that the assaults were intended to deter academic and democratic activities on campus. They also said memorandums and police complaints submitted by the victims indicated a lack of timely response from the university administration.

According to a written complaint submitted to the university proctor on February 23, AISF members said they were attacked after holding a peaceful study circle and unit conference on February 20.

They maintained that prior written intimation had been given to the authorities requesting security arrangements. Organisers described the gathering as an academic discussion aimed at promoting scientific temper and rational debate, and alleged that despite informing university officials and the police in advance, a group of around 100–150 people disrupted the programme and assaulted participants, Maktoob Media reported.

One of the injured students, Bittu Kumar, a B.Com student, said the attack occurred without provocation, while another student, Sukhchand Yadav, said the incident created an atmosphere of fear across the campus.

Students further alleged that the situation worsened on February 23 when those who had been injured went to the proctor’s office to seek protection. Based on FIR and complaint documents reviewed by Maktoob, they were attacked again near the administrative premises. The students reported that they were beaten with sticks and suffered injuries to their faces and eyes.

Hari Ayyapan, a BA student, said he was beaten in full public view, while Narayan Shukla said the recurrence of violence within a short span reflected a pattern of intimidation. Another student, Ankit, said the campus environment had become tense and fearful, adding that students were increasingly hesitant to take part in academic or organisational activities.

AISF representatives further alleged that the university administration failed to ensure student safety despite prior written requests. The organisation demanded an impartial probe, disciplinary action against those responsible, and concrete assurances of safety for students.

Police complaints were filed in connection with the incidents, and an FIR was registered based on student statements describing assault and intimidation. However, authorities had not announced any arrests at the time of reporting.

In a memorandum reviewed by Maktoob, students warned that repeated attacks and the circulation of misinformation about them on social media could further heighten tensions and threaten campus peace and law and order.

Student groups said the incidents raised broader concerns about academic freedom and safety in central universities, arguing that the violence appeared aimed at creating fear and discouraging discussions on social and political issues.

AISF called for urgent intervention by the university authorities to restore a safe and democratic environment on campus, warning that inaction could embolden further violence. The university administration had not issued a detailed public response to the allegations at the time of reporting.