Tension was reported at Lucknow University after the administration locked and barricaded the historic Lal Baradari building on campus, where a mosque is located. Muslim students offered namaz outside the closed structure, while Hindu students formed a human chain around them in a show of solidarity and unity.
A heavy police force was deployed on campus as students from different organisations staged a protest against the sealing of the gate.
Historic Lal Baradari Locked, Students Protest
Students said the Lal Baradari is nearly 200 years old and was built around 1800 during the reign of Nasiruddin Haider, before the university was established. The structure is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
According to protesting students, a mosque inside the Baradari has been used for prayers for decades. They alleged that the university administration sealed the mosque gate without prior notice and began fencing and repair work around the building.
In protest, students gathered outside Lal Baradari and raised slogans. Some students reportedly removed barricades and threw away construction materials placed near the site. Police later persuaded them to calm down.
“We have been offering namaz here for years. The mosque has been closed without notice. We will continue our protest until the gate is reopened,” one student leader said.
Namaz Offered Outside, Human Chain Formed
As the gate remained locked, Muslim students offered namaz outside the Baradari building. Hindu students stood behind them, forming a security cordon by holding hands to ensure that prayers were conducted peacefully.
The gesture was widely seen as a message of communal harmony amid the tension.
University Cites Safety Concerns
University officials said the building is in a damaged condition and could pose a safety risk. Construction Superintendent Dr Shyamlesh stated, “The Lal Baradari building is completely dilapidated and can collapse at any time. The broken doors were closed for safety reasons. Fencing work is being done to prevent unsafe activities.”
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Registrar Bhavna Mishra had earlier written to the local police station seeking security arrangements, anticipating possible protests over the fencing work.
The administration also said that some areas inside the Baradari, including a bank, club and canteen, were being vacated due to safety concerns.
Police Deployment on Campus
Police forces from multiple stations were deployed at the university to maintain law and order. After discussions with officers, protesting students eventually stepped back, though they maintained that their agitation would continue if the mosque remained sealed.
Student groups, including Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha, NSUI and AISA, participated in the demonstration.
The incident comes during the holy month of Ramzan, when Muslims observe daily fasts and offer special Taraweeh prayers at night. Students said that offering namaz at Lal Baradari during Ramzan holds special importance for them.
Authorities said the situation is currently under control but discussions between students and the administration are expected to continue.
