Police use water cannons at protest over suspensions at Central University of Kerala

A Students’ Federation of India march was linked to disciplinary action after a dispute over a Vande Mataram seminar, as protests continued on campus.

A clash broke out at the Central University of Kerala on Friday, October 9, during a march organised by the Students’ Federation of India (SFI). Police used water cannons to stop protesters attempting to push past barricades. Confrontations followed, and security was increased across the campus.

The protest followed a two-day seminar on Vande Mataram recently held in the university library hall with the Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad. SFI and other student organisations opposed the event and alleged that it promoted the agenda of the Sangh Parivar. That allegation was made by the protesters.

Tensions had risen when the Governor arrived for the seminar and protesters moved towards the venue. The university cited disruption of an official event in taking disciplinary action, including suspending students and evicting some from hostel accommodation. Police also registered a case against 25 students. A separate report by Samakalika Malayalam said five students were suspended.