ABVP Activists Vandalize Azim Premji University Campus Over Kashmir Discussion
In a controversial incident in Bengaluru, activists from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) vandalized the campus of Azim Premji University on February 24, 2026. The protest erupted over a discussion on Kashmir, which the ABVP members alleged was promoting separatism. The situation escalated quickly, leading to significant damage on the university premises.
Police Intervention and Preventive Custody
Following nearly two hours of unrest, police intervened and took 18 protesters into preventive custody. Authorities stated that they would register a criminal case after conducting a preliminary inquiry into the matter. The swift action by law enforcement aimed to restore order and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Background and Implications
The incident highlights ongoing sensitivities around discussions related to Kashmir in academic settings. Azim Premji University, known for its focus on social sciences and education, has been at the center of such debates before. This vandalism raises concerns about freedom of expression and campus safety in India's educational institutions.
Experts suggest that such acts could have broader implications for student activism and political discourse in universities across the country. The police's decision to pursue a criminal case underscores the seriousness with which such incidents are being treated, potentially setting a precedent for future conflicts.
