Tue Feb 03 15:36:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Student Union Leaders Abducted Amid Protests Against Mohan Babu University in Tirupati
The Story:
On February 3, 2026, two student union leaders, SFI district general secretary S. Akbar and SVU students’ union leader Vinod, were allegedly abducted in broad daylight in Tirupati. The incident occurred as they were en route to the Tirupati Collectorate to participate in a demonstration against alleged irregularities at Mohan Babu University. Approximately 30 individuals reportedly attacked the student leaders, forcing them into a vehicle and driving away.
Left leaders, including CITU State vice-president Kandharapu Murali, alerted law enforcement officials. The abduction follows a period of agitation by student organizations and the Andhra Pradesh Parents Association concerning fee collection practices at the university. The A.P. Parents Association State president S. Narahari condemned the attack and called for the Chief Minister’s intervention.
Key Points:
- S. Akbar and Vinod, student union leaders, were allegedly abducted on February 3, 2026, while heading to a protest.
- The protest was against alleged irregularities at Mohan Babu University.
- Approximately 30 individuals are reported to have been involved in the abduction.
- CITU State vice-president Kandharapu Murali alerted police.
- The Andhra Pradesh Parents Association has been agitating against the university’s fee collection practices.
- S. Narahari demanded implementation of APHERMC inquiry committee recommendations, cancellation of university permissions, refund of ₹26.17 crore collected illegally, enforcement of ₹15 lakh penalty, and withdrawal of cases against parents/students.
- Tiruchanur police have filed a case, naming Satheesh, Chancellor M. Mohan Babu, and Pro-Chancellor Manchu Vishnu as accused.
Key Takeaways:
- The abduction highlights escalating tensions between student organizations, parents, and Mohan Babu University administration.
- The involvement of high-profile individuals like Chancellor M. Mohan Babu and Pro-Chancellor Manchu Vishnu as accused in the police case adds significant weight to the allegations.
- The incident underscores the government’s perceived inaction in addressing the alleged irregularities, prompting the student unions to escalate their protests.
- This event could potentially trigger wider protests and further scrutiny of the university’s operations and governance.
- The case exposes the risks faced by student activists in India when challenging powerful institutions.