Students protested against SRM University in Barabanki for running an LLB course without affiliation. During the protest, there was a clash with the police, in which several students were injured, and outrage spread against the university administration.
Barabanki: A fierce clash occurred between students and police at Shriram Swaroop Memorial University (SRM University) in Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Students allege that the LLB course is being taught in the university without affiliation, posing a serious threat to their future. Angry students, along with ABVP activists, created a significant disturbance on the college campus.
The students had started this protest two days prior, with hundreds of students participating. Soon, this number reached thousands, and the situation spiraled out of control.
Students Allege Running of Unaffiliated Courses
Initially, the students protested peacefully, but the protest intensified due to allegations against the university administration for running an unaccredited course. Students stated that such studies are impacting their careers and future.
During the protest, students alleged that some miscreants were sent to the spot with the help of the administration. They claimed these individuals were residents of villages surrounding the university and were called to intimidate the students.
Dozens of Students Injured in Clash with Police
To control the protest, the police used force, leading to a confrontation between students and the police. In this clash, 22 students were injured, with the condition of 2 being reported as serious. All the injured have been admitted to a local hospital for treatment. Videos viral on social media show the police stopping and beating students. Following this incident, the students' anger further escalated.
Students Protested Outside District Magistrate's Residence
After the clash with the police, students protested late into the night outside the District Magistrate's residence in Barabanki and burned an effigy. The protest continued late into the night.
Students may continue their protest on Tuesday as well. The police have tightened security arrangements in the entire area as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, ABVP activists are preparing to register their protest against the university in Lucknow as well.
Rising Tensions Between Students and University Administration
This dispute has heightened tensions between the students and the university administration. Students are demanding the immediate closure of the LLB course being run without affiliation and the assurance of their future security.
The administration has stated that steps are being taken to bring the situation under control and that security arrangements have been fully intensified. Meanwhile, the students' complaints are being taken seriously.
