Rohtak: Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) leader and former deputy chief minister of Haryana, Dushyant Chautala, on Friday criticised the BJP-led state government for reducing universities to "political playgrounds." Referring to recent developments at Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology (GJSTU), Chautala alleged that when students raised their demands, the BJP government reacted out of fear and detained JJP leaders overnight.
Allegations of Government Interference
Chautala claimed that the government was deliberately interfering in student politics. Addressing a meeting of party workers in Rohtak, he asserted that while every student organisation has the right to express its views within a university campus, opposition to the BJP's political ideology would continue. He announced that a "Student Interest Mahapanchayat" will be organised in Hisar on April 27.
Police Misuse and Legal Violations
The JJP leader accused the police of violating legal procedures. He claimed that despite submitting a written complaint, no FIR had been registered so far. Chautala also questioned the intent behind registering a case at Kurukshetra University after a 14-day delay, allegedly over the breaking of four chairs. He questioned why the university administration had not filed cases in earlier instances, noting that if financial losses of around Rs 1 lakh could be ignored, filing an FIR over minor damage such as broken flower pots raised questions about intent.
Concerns Over CIA Unit
Chautala raised concerns over the functioning of the CIA unit of the Hisar police, alleging that vehicles without number plates and with black-tinted windows were seen parked from PGI Chowk to Gandhi Chowk in Rohtak. He questioned whether such practices were permissible under the law, adding that the government was attempting to divert attention from real issues.
Instances of Intimidation
The JJP leader alleged misuse of police power in multiple instances. He cited cases where the police reportedly entered the homes of individuals, including a small trader, and acted in an intimidating manner. He claimed that in one instance, a firearm was pointed at a person in front of a minor, and in another, inappropriate conduct occurred in a household where a minor girl was present.
Criticism of AAP and BJP
On the developments involving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Chautala said that a large number of its MPs joining the BJP reflected an attempt to weaken democratic institutions. He claimed that similar actions were intended against him. Chautala also hinted that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini appeared to be supportive of the vice-chancellor of GJSTU.
Upcoming Mahapanchayat
The JJP leader announced that the "Student Interest Mahapanchayat" will be held in Hisar on April 27, aiming to address student issues and oppose the government's policies. He urged students and party workers to participate in large numbers.
