The administration of Pondicherry University abruptly ended a football tournament organized by the students’ union after a Palestine banner was displayed during halftime, leading to tensions on campus. The final match began at 1:00 a.m., and during halftime, these events took place.
Dr. A. Praveen, the Director of Physical Education at Pondicherry University, stated that the university is not a platform for international solidarities and that this is not the appropriate time to exercise freedom of expression.
According to sources, the banner was unfurled at the halfway mark of the match, prompting immediate intervention from university officials. Despite the majority of the audience reportedly supporting the display, authorities entered the field and called off the tournament. Additionally, power to the stadium was cut off, further escalating the situation.
The sudden cancellation led to prolonged discussions between students and university officials, still continuing over 2 hour. Students appealed for the tournament to continue, but the administration stood firm on its decision.
Pondicherry University students for Palestine issued a statement condemning the administration’s actions. “We strongly condemn the university’s actions and stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of Palestine, where settler colonialist forces continue their brutal bombings,” they said. “This blatant suppression of student voices is unacceptable. Resistance is our right. Solidarity is our duty.”
They had said that they will hold a mass rally in solidarity with Palestine on March 24.
As of now, university authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the incident. However, the intervention has sparked debates among students about the administration’s stance on campus expression and student-led initiatives.
