ABVP protest sparks tension at Azim Premji University campus

Bengaluru

Tension gripped the campus of Azim Premji University near Sarjapur in Anekal taluk after members affiliated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) allegedly forced their way into the institution on Tuesday evening, vandalised property and triggered a confrontation over what they claimed was an “anti-national” student event.

Police detained several ABVP activists on charges of trespass and disturbing public order after they staged a protest outside and reportedly entered the campus premises. According to law enforcement officials, swift intervention prevented the situation from spiralling further.

Superintendent of Police Chandrakanth M.V. confirmed that preventive action was taken to maintain law and order. “All necessary steps have been initiated to ensure peace and prevent escalation,” he said, adding that the situation was brought under control without major injuries.

Allegations and denials

ABVP leaders alleged that a student group within the university had organised an event portraying the Indian Army in a negative light. Calling the content “anti-national,” the organisation submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Ministry seeking strict action against those responsible.

However, university authorities categorically denied the allegations. In an official statement, the institution said around 20 individuals entered the campus at approximately 6 p.m., shouted slogans, damaged property and assaulted security personnel and students. The matter was immediately reported to Sarjapura police, who detained those involved.

The university further clarified that the event in question “did not take place at all,” stating that all campus programmes undergo strict approval procedures. It condemned what it described as an act of “violence unleashed by an external group.”

Counter-protest

In response, students of the university organised a counter-demonstration condemning the ABVP’s actions and demanding accountability.

A student associated with a study circle said the discussion was an informal academic interaction on Kashmir. “Kashmir is part of India and part of our syllabus. There was nothing unusual or unlawful about discussing it,” she said. She alleged that when a student questioned the vandalism, he was assaulted and later hospitalised.

The All India Students’ Association (AISA) also issued a statement condemning the incident, calling it a “deliberate attack on debate, dissent and academic freedom.”

As investigations continue, the episode has reignited debates over campus autonomy, freedom of expression and the limits of political intervention in educational institutions.