HAU Student Protest Escalates as University Files FIR Against 19 Students

The ongoing student protest at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) has escalated, with the university administration and students lodging formal complaints against each other, even as semester exams proceed under tight security.

University Files FIR Against Students

On June 16, the university filed a complaint with district authorities, accusing 19 students of disrupting exams and pressuring others to join the protest. Registrar Dr. Pawan Kumar said some students attempted to stop others from appearing in the exams, despite police being deployed on campus. “Maintaining peace and discipline is crucial during this time,” he added.

Police have confirmed the registration of an FIR based on the university’s complaint and said that an investigation is underway.  

Students Claims Harassment and Discrimination by University Officials

In response, the protesting students submitted a memorandum to the Haryana Chief Secretary on June 17. The letter accuses university officials of mental harassment, caste-based discrimination, and intimidation.

The complaint is filed against Chief Security Officer Sukhbir Singh and 17 faculty members, alleging late-night hostel raids, verbal abuse and mistreatment of students from outside Haryana and with students admitted through the ICAR quota. 

“We’re demanding a fair investigation and assurance that our right to protest peacefully will be respected,” the students said in the letter. 

Political Voices and Campus Changes

Former MP and Congress leader Brijendra Singh visited the campus midweek, expressing support for the protesting students. He urged the administration to open a dialogue and backed the demand for the Vice Chancellor’s removal, suggesting that such incidents couldn’t happen without his knowledge.

Following the allegations, the university removed Chief Security Officer Sukhbir Singh from his post and appointed Assistant Professor Anil Kumar to take over campus security. 

Protest Draws National Support

The protest has attracted national attention. Leaders from the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union, including current president Nitish Kumar and former president Aishe Ghosh, as well as representatives from Delhi University, visited the campus to show solidarity.

Despite the ongoing protests, university officials said academic activities are stabilizing. On Wednesday, 153 students reportedly appeared for exams held under heightened security.