Delhi University Protest Escalates into Violence, YouTuber Alleges Assault and Caste-Based Threats
In a disturbing incident at Delhi University's North Campus, a female YouTuber has come forward with serious allegations of physical assault and attempted abduction during a protest on Friday. The protest was organized to demand the implementation of new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations aimed at addressing caste discrimination on campuses across India.
YouTuber's Harrowing Account of the Incident
The YouTuber, who regularly covers protests, stated that she was targeted immediately upon arrival. "Before I could even take out my mic, a person behind me tried to instigate me by repeatedly taking my name," she recounted. When she inquired about the issue, she was asked for her name and caste. Upon revealing her identity as a Brahmin, the situation rapidly deteriorated.
"The entire crowd came towards me and attacked me. About 500 people attacked me. The girls around me whispered rape threats in my ears just because I am a Brahmin; 'aaj tu chal, tera nanga parade niklega,' is what they said," she told ANI. She further alleged that men threatened to teach her a lesson, while girls held her by the arms and neck, leading her to fall unconscious. She criticized the police for inaction during the half-hour ordeal.
The YouTuber claimed that there was an attempt to forcibly take her away, with a car nearby and gestures suggesting she be placed inside. "My clothes were being torn. I was being improperly touched. They were goons, they cannot be students," she asserted, linking the attack to her caste. She expressed gratitude to a few Law Faculty members and women police personnel who assisted her escape. An FIR has been registered, and she expressed trust in the legal system.
Student Groups Deny Allegations, Offer Counter-Claims
In response, the All India Students' Association (AISA), a Left-backed student union, denied the allegations, calling them "false and motivated." AISA stated that the protest was peaceful and that its activists intervened only after the YouTuber allegedly created a disruption and confronted a journalist at the site.
AISA further claimed that two of its members were threatened and faced abuse at the police station when they went to file a complaint. "Delhi Police repeatedly failed to disperse the attacking mob... The mob raised slogans like 'Desh ke gaddaron ko, goli maro salon ko' and 'Brahmanwad Zindabad,'" the group alleged, accusing the police of inaction.
Countering these claims, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), affiliated with the BJP, alleged that the YouTuber was assaulted by Left-backed activists. ABVP stated that this incident exposes the violent nature of Left-affiliated student organizations, which often claim to champion freedom of expression.
Police Action and University Administration's Response
Delhi Police have registered two FIRs based on complaints from the YouTuber and a female student affiliated with AISA. The FIRs include charges under Sections 74 (assault or criminal force against a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt), 126(2) (wrongful restraint), and 3(5) (common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). A senior police officer confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated.
Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh described the incident as a matter of concern and emphasized the importance of social harmony. "Social harmony is the greatest thing, and maintaining it is the duty of all of us," he posted on X. Singh revealed that he has spoken with student and teacher groups, as well as the police administration, to prevent future incidents.
He also addressed the UGC regulations, noting that they are currently under consideration in the Supreme Court. "I appeal to all teachers and students of the university to maintain their trust in the Government of India and await the decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court," the VC added.
Background of the Protest and Broader Implications
The protest was part of a larger demonstration organized by Left-backed student unions, coinciding with a separate event by the All India Forum for Equity to observe 'All India Vanchit Adhikar Divas' at the Arts Faculty. This gathering allegedly witnessed scenes of violence, highlighting deep-seated tensions over caste issues in educational institutions.
Multiple videos of the incident have circulated on social media, with each side blaming the other for the violence. The chaos underscores the ongoing debates around caste discrimination and student activism in India's premier universities. As investigations proceed, the incident raises critical questions about campus safety, freedom of expression, and the role of authorities in maintaining order during protests.
