Delhi University’s North Campus witnessed protests on March 30 after students alleged that security personnel and Delhi Police had forcibly disrupted a cultural program commemorating revolutionary martyrs Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru. The incident reportedly took place on March 27 during a Disha Students’ Organization event at the university.
The students claim that the portraits of the martyrs were torn, women were dragged, and a visually challenged student was harassed. The protestors demanded strict action against those responsible.
Disha Students Speak Out
Addressing the protest, Yogesh of Disha Students’ Organization highlighted the significance of the martyrs. “The university security and Delhi Police have shown their true character by insulting Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, figures revered by millions in our country,” he said. He emphasized the importance of normalizing cultural events that honor revolutionary legacies on campus.
Shivam, another member of the organization, criticized the shrinking democratic space in universities. “After students successfully resisted the imposition of BNSS 163 for a month, the university still introduced an undemocratic decree on March 23 requiring prior permission for every event at least 72 hours in advance. Why should students need approval to hold events on their own campus?” he asked.
Shivam also pointed out the selective nature of university administration. “Events organized by RSS affiliates happen regularly without disruption, yet students cannot even hold discussion sessions freely. This shows clear bias and suppression of student voices.”
“Burning of Anti-Student Law“
As part of the protest, Disha Students’ Organization burned copies of the March 23 anti-student decree. They described the law as a blatant attack on democratic rights, warning it could be used to silence students raising legitimate concerns. “We demand the scrapping of this law and any other guideline that does not serve the interests of common students and university staff,” the organization said in a statement.
Call for National Awareness
The organization urged media platforms to amplify the voices of students and highlight the challenges faced in public universities. They warned that attacks on the legacy of revolutionaries must be resisted across the country before such actions become normalized.
“Our martyrs’ legacy cannot be disrespected. No amount of repression or undemocratic decrees can stop students and youth from reclaiming and commemorating our revolutionary heroes,” the statement added.
