Students at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have reported being detained for protesting the death of a fellow student from Mahila Maha Vidyalaya (MMV) due to alleged medical negligence. The third-semester undergraduate student passed away from a heart attack on the morning of October 9, triggering protests on campus.
The situation escalated, leading to the detention of several students, including a former student who was arrested for nearly three days and charged under Section 150 for unlawful assembly. Protesters have raised concerns about a perceived lack of action by MMV authorities, who allegedly stated they could not assist the victim because she was a woman.
Amit, a BHU alumnus and member of a student organization, spoke to Maktoob about his experience, stating that he was arrested on accusations of inciting violence. “We were protesting because we learned that the student’s death was due to medical negligence. They used my status as a former student to justify my arrest,” he said, adding that while others were released, he was detained for three days.
Amit also highlighted changes in law enforcement practices, noting that the police now wield greater power in such situations, complicating the process of obtaining bail. He explained, “Bail has also become difficult; previously, you would not be jailed under these sections.”
The administration’s handling of student protests has sparked widespread outrage. Students allege that punitive measures are frequently taken against those expressing dissent over various issues, including safety concerns and administrative actions. Mukul, a current BHU student and member of the student organization DISHA, commented, “Democratic voices are being oppressed across the country. Given that BHU is situated in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency, the administration often creates obstacles whenever students attempt to protest.”
Student union representatives have suggested that Amit’s extended detention may be linked to his history of activism. This incident is not isolated; in October 2024, the administration suspended 13 students for protesting the handling of a sexual assault case, and in December 2024, 13 members of the Bhagat Singh Students Front were arrested for discussing Manusmriti Dahan Divas, during which they were accused of burning copies of the text.
The situation at BHU reflects a growing trend of suppression of student voices amid escalating tensions surrounding university governance and student activism.
Tags: BHU, students protest, illegal detention, medical negligence, female student death
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