Violence erupted at VIT University located along the Indore-Bhopal Highway in Sehore district during a midnight protest that turned destructive on Tuesday. Angry students set multiple vehicles on fire and caused significant damage to campus property following growing frustrations over a suspected jaundice outbreak and alleged administrative negligence.
What Sparked the Midnight Protest?
The unrest began after approximately two dozen students fell ill with suspected jaundice, creating panic across the campus. Students had repeatedly complained about deteriorating food quality and poor hygiene standards, but claimed the university administration ignored their concerns.
Unconfirmed reports circulating among students suggest at least three students have died from jaundice on campus within the past month, though authorities have not verified these claims. The situation worsened when students alleged they were forced to purchase bottled mineral water at their own expense due to poor water quality in hostels.
Protest Escalates into Violence
Tensions reached a boiling point when faculty members allegedly assaulted protesting students, triggering widespread anger across the campus. Around midnight, large groups of students gathered in open areas, chanting slogans and demanding immediate action from university authorities.
The peaceful demonstration quickly turned violent as furious students targeted campus property. Two cars, a bus, an ambulance, and several motorcycles were set ablaze, with dramatic visuals of burning vehicles circulating widely on social media. Students also vandalized parts of the chancellor's bungalow while recording videos and continuing their protest chants.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Police teams from Sehore and surrounding areas were quickly deployed to control the volatile situation and prevent further violence. Activists from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) also arrived at the campus following the outbreak of violence.
Despite the scale of the protest and serious health concerns, neither VIT University administration nor district authorities have issued any official statement. Multiple attempts to contact university representatives for comments remained unanswered.
Local police confirmed they are investigating multiple aspects of the incident, including verifying the cause of the illnesses, examining allegations of assault against faculty members, and assessing the extent of property damage. Authorities have indicated that further action will be determined once the ongoing inquiry is completed.
