Thu Feb 26 06:53:04 UTC 2026: ### Campus Clash: ABVP Protest Rocks Azim Premji University Over Kashmir Discussion

The Story:
A controversy erupted at Azim Premji University (APU) in Bengaluru on February 24, 2026, after members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) allegedly trespassed onto the campus, vandalized property, and assaulted security personnel to protest a planned discussion on “violence by the Indian State in Kashmir.” The event was organized by a social media page called “Spark Reading Circle, APU,” which the university claims has no official affiliation with the institution. University authorities filed a police complaint against the social media page, leading to an FIR and subsequent investigation.

The incident has sparked debate within the university community, with the Student Council expressing concern over the university’s decision to involve criminal law and advocating for internal disciplinary measures instead. They highlight the perceived disparity in treatment between the ABVP members, who received bail on bailable charges, and the organizers of the discussion, who are facing a non-bailable offense.

Key Points:

  • ABVP activists allegedly trespassed on Azim Premji University campus on February 24, 2026, protesting a discussion on “violence by the Indian State in Kashmir.”
  • The protest was triggered by a social media post on Instagram by “Spark Reading Circle, APU,” an unaffiliated account.
  • The university filed a police complaint against the social media page, leading to an FIR under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and IT Act.
  • The Student Council criticized the university’s decision to involve criminal law, advocating for internal disciplinary action.
  • The Student Council pointed out the “asymmetry in outcomes” between the ABVP protestors and the event organizers.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the increasing sensitivity surrounding discussions on Kashmir and the potential for such events to trigger strong reactions.
  • The university’s response to the protest raises questions about the balance between freedom of expression and maintaining order on campus.
  • The Student Council’s statement reflects a growing concern about the use of criminal law to address what they perceive as internal university matters.
  • The incident underscores the power of social media in shaping narratives and mobilizing protests, even when the information’s source is unverified.
  • The event could potentially chill academic discourse and critical engagement with sensitive topics within the university.

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