Andhra University Constitutes Special Peace Committee to Address Campus Clashes
In response to escalating tensions and violent clashes between student factions over the past week, Andhra University in Visakhapatnam has taken decisive action by forming a special peace committee. The committee aims to mediate the ongoing dispute between the AISF/SFI and ABVP-RSS groups, which has disrupted campus peace and academic activities.
High-Level Meeting Seeks Resolution
The inaugural peace committee meeting convened with significant administrative and law enforcement presence. Vice-Chancellor Prof. GP Rajasekhar, Rector Prof. P King, Revenue Divisional Officer Sudha Sagar, and East Assistant Commissioner of Police Lakshmana Murthy engaged directly with representatives from both student groups. This high-level involvement underscores the university's commitment to restoring order and ensuring a safe learning environment.
The committee meticulously reviewed petitions and concerns presented by both the SFI–AISF and ABVP factions. Officials confirmed that student representatives were instructed to submit all relevant video footage and documentary evidence related to the clashes to the university registrar by Monday afternoon. This evidence will be crucial in informing the committee's deliberations and ensuring a fair, evidence-based resolution.
Strict Directives and Upcoming Decision
University authorities have issued clear and firm directives to all parties involved. Both student groups have been strictly prohibited from organizing any programmes, dharnas, or protests on campus until further notice. The peace committee is scheduled to reconvene on March 2 to deliver its final, binding verdict. All students have been directed to respect and abide by this upcoming decision without exception.
RDO Sudha Sagar addressed the students, emphasizing the detrimental impact such conflicts can have on their academic futures. She strongly advised students to disengage from disputes and refocus their energies on their studies and career development. "Preserving a conducive academic atmosphere is paramount," she stated, urging students to prioritize their long-term goals over immediate political disagreements.
Administrative Appeals for Campus Harmony
Following the meeting, Vice-Chancellor Prof. GP Rajasekhar made a public appeal to the student body. He called for collective responsibility in maintaining campus harmony and explicitly requested that all students exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could incite further conflict. "Maintaining peace on our campus is a shared duty that requires cooperation from everyone," he remarked, reiterating the ban on protests for the time being.
Prof. Rajasekhar also addressed the issue of non-boarder students residing on campus, clarifying that the university has begun enforcing existing regulations. Two official notices have been issued, and the process of relocating non-boarders has commenced. The Vice-Chancellor warned that disciplinary action would be taken against any students found providing accommodation to unauthorized individuals, reinforcing the administration's stance on campus security and rule compliance.
Committee Composition and Assurance of Impartiality
The peace committee includes Registrar Prof. K Rambabu, along with various principals, deans, and other senior university officials, ensuring a comprehensive and authoritative approach to the dispute. The committee members have assured all parties that their decision will be impartial and based solely on the facts and evidence presented.
RDO Sudha Sagar reinforced this commitment, stating that the committee is dedicated to delivering a fair judgment and urged all student groups to accept the outcome respectfully. The formation of this committee represents a proactive step by Andhra University to de-escalate tensions and foster a permanent resolution to the recurring clashes, thereby safeguarding the institution's academic integrity and student welfare.
