Tue Mar 11 06:30:35 UTC 2025: ## Jadavpur University Roiled by Protests, Graffiti, and Alleged Police Presence

**Kolkata, March 11, 2025** – Jadavpur University (JU) remains embroiled in protests following a series of incidents, including an alleged attack on state Education Minister Bratya Basu, the appearance of pro-secessionist graffiti, and the reported presence of plainclothes police officers on campus.

On March 1st, two students were injured when Minister Basu’s car allegedly grazed them during a Left-wing protest. An FIR has been filed against Basu and TMC leader Om Prakash Mishra in connection with the incident. Subsequent days saw ongoing protests.

Adding to the tensions, graffiti proclaiming “Azad Kashmir” and “Free Palestine” appeared on campus Monday. While the perpetrators remain unidentified, the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) blamed ultra-Left student groups. The Students’ Federation of India (SFI) denied supporting secessionist views but criticized the repression of minorities in BJP-ruled states. Several faculty members also condemned the graffiti.

The situation escalated further when approximately 30 plainclothes police officers reportedly entered the campus Monday afternoon, shortly after Mishra’s arrival. Students and faculty from SFI, AIDSO, JUTA, and ABUTA protested this presence, claiming it was an act of intimidation by the ruling TMC and state administration. While Mishra claimed ignorance of the police presence, university officials denied calling them and stated police had only maintained a vigil outside the campus since March 1st.

JUTA and ABUTA expressed their disapproval of the police presence, regardless of whether officers were in uniform or plainclothes. Following negotiations, students submitted a list of demands, including student union elections and improved campus safety. Classes are expected to resume fully on Tuesday. The ongoing situation highlights the deep political divisions within the university community.

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