U.P. Govt Launches Probe into Lathi Charge on ABVP Activists, Officer Relieved

Swift Summary

• Incident: A lathi charge by police occurred on September 1,2025,at Shri Ram Swaroop Memorial University in Barabanki,Uttar Pradesh,targeting students and Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) workers during a protest.
• Protest Details: The demonstration was against alleged malpractices by the university, including admissions to an LLB course after its Bar Council of India (BCI) recognition was revoked in 2022.
• Other Allegations: ABVP also accused the university of unconstitutional student expulsions, arbitrary fines for late fees, harassment of students, and opposing a student-led ‘Tiranga Yatra’ on August 15th.
• Casualties Reported: The protest resulted in injuries to around 25 participants following the police action.
• Administrative Action: Circle Officer Harshit Chauhan was removed from his position. U.P. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed an inquiry led by IG Ayodhya Range praveen Kumar.
• University’s Stand: University officials claimed that those protesting were “outsiders.”

Indian opinion Analysis

This incident raises significant concerns about accountability in educational institutions and their impact on students’ futures. The allegations made by ABVP reflect broader anxieties about institutional clarity and governance-especially regarding regulatory compliance like BCI recognition for professional courses.If true, such lapses could adversely affect career prospects for enrolled students.

The government’s prompt action to relieve the Circle Officer highlights sensitivity towards public outrage but also underscores issues surrounding disproportionate use of force during peaceful protests-a recurring challenge when managing dissent.

This situation serves as a reminder that safeguarding student rights within regulatory frameworks is essential for fostering trust between universities and their stakeholders. It further emphasizes the role of impartial investigations in addressing grievances while preserving law enforcement’s integrity.

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