In a serious violation of Gujarat's strict prohibition laws, six international students sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) face severe disciplinary action after being caught at a liquor party in Ahmedabad.
The incident came to light when Ahmedabad police raided a residential apartment in the city's Paldi area following a tip-off about illegal alcohol consumption. The raid revealed six foreign students, all beneficiaries of the prestigious ICCR fellowship program, participating in the gathering where liquor was being served.
Strict Action Under Consideration
Authorities have confirmed that the students are likely to face strict disciplinary measures that could include termination of their scholarships and potential expulsion from their educational institutions. The ICCR has taken serious note of the violation and is coordinating with respective universities regarding appropriate action.
"This is not just a legal matter but also a breach of trust and cultural respect," an official familiar with the investigation stated. "These students came here on cultural exchange programs and have violated both the law and the spirit of their fellowship."
Gujarat's Zero-Tolerance Policy
The incident highlights the challenges faced by international students adapting to Gujarat's complete prohibition policy, which has been in effect for decades. Despite the state's dry law, illegal liquor parties continue to surface, often involving both local residents and visitors.
Police officials emphasized that no exceptions are made for anyone violating the prohibition laws, regardless of their background or status. The students involved could face legal consequences under the Gujarat Prohibition Act, which carries strict penalties for alcohol possession and consumption.
Broader Implications for International Students
This incident has raised questions about orientation programs for international students regarding local laws and cultural norms. Educational institutions and fellowship programs may need to strengthen their briefing sessions about state-specific regulations that foreign students must adhere to during their stay in India.
The ICCR fellowship program, which brings thousands of international students to India annually, emphasizes cultural exchange and academic excellence. This incident marks one of the rare cases where fellowship recipients have faced such serious disciplinary proceedings.
