ABVP Activists Detained After Protest at Azim Premji University
Several activists affiliated with the (ABVP) were taken into preventive custody following a protest that led to alleged vandalism at near Sarjapur in Bengaluru district. The incident occurred after ABVP members accused the institution of allowing an event they claimed portrayed the Indian Army negatively — allegations the university and participating students have denied.
Police reached the campus to prevent escalation and detained a number of individuals. Bengaluru District Superintendent of Police Chandrakanth M.V. said authorities had taken necessary steps to maintain law and order.
According to the university, a group of around 20 people entered the campus on Tuesday evening, raised slogans and damaged property. The institution stated that some security personnel and students were assaulted during the disruption and that the matter was immediately reported to local police.
ABVP, meanwhile, submitted a memorandum to the Union Home Ministry demanding action against the student group allegedly linked to the proposed event.
University authorities clarified that the discussion cited by protesters did not take place and reiterated that all campus events follow established approval procedures.
Counter-Protests and Student Reactions
Following the incident, students of Azim Premji University organised a counter-protest condemning the alleged vandalism and urging authorities to take action. Student groups argued that the disruption affected academic spaces intended for discussion and debate.
A student associated with a study circle said the gathering referenced by ABVP was an informal conversation about Kashmir as part of coursework. She alleged that a student questioning the protest was assaulted and later required medical attention.
The (AISA) also issued a statement criticising the vandalism and described it as an attack on academic freedom and discussion culture.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions on university campuses around political expression, academic discussions and student activism. Authorities have emphasised maintaining order while reviewing complaints from multiple sides.
Such confrontations often trigger wider debates about freedom of expression in academic institutions, the role of student organisations and administrative oversight of campus events.
Police action prevented further escalation, but the episode has intensified discussion around campus governance and political mobilisation within universities. With statements from multiple student groups and institutional responses continuing, the matter may lead to further administrative and legal review.
Our Final Thoughts
Campus disputes increasingly reflect broader ideological debates in society, placing universities at the centre of conversations about free speech and political activism. The Azim Premji University incident underscores the importance of clear communication, institutional safeguards and peaceful engagement in addressing disagreements within academic spaces.