Jaipur, Apr 3 (PTI) Tense scenes unfolded outside the Rajasthan University on Friday after NSUI members staged a protest against a programme on women’s empowerment on campus, linking it to the ideology of the RSS.
The demonstration turned tense as some protesters tried to jump barricades to enter the campus, prompting police to use mild force to disperse them.
Police also detained several NSUI members, while additional force was deployed in and outside the campus to maintain law and order.
The event, organised by the Marudhara Nari Sangathan at the humanities auditorium on Friday, reportedly involved individuals associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), which is the student wing of the Congress, alleged that the programme was an attempt to promote a particular ideology on campus.
“The campus cannot be used for activities that promote a particular ideology. The university is a centre of learning, and such events influence the academic atmosphere,” NSUI leader Amardeep Parihar said, Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot condemned the event and the police action against the NSUI members.
“Educational institutions should be centres of knowledge, research and equality, not platforms for ideological or political activities,” he said.
Gehlot also alleged that the RSS ideology was contrary to the values of the Constitution, democracy, women’s empowerment, education and reservation, and promoted division and hatred in society.
“It is unfortunate that instead of focusing on research and academic development, the university authorities and the state government are influencing the campus environment to appease their political bosses,” he said.
Gehlot recalled that the NSUI had earlier protested against a weapon-worship programme of the RSS in the university on September 30, 2025, saying the student body would continue to oppose such events in a democratic manner.
The leader of opposition in Rajasthan Assembly, Tikaram Jully, said, “Continuous attempts are being made to impose the RSS ideology on higher education institutions. In Rajasthan University too, they are advancing their ideological agenda.” “Every citizen has a constitutional right to dissent. NSUI members are committed to defending democracy and they will not be intimidated by the BJP’s tactics,” Jully added.
State Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra said the detention of NSUI members reflected the government’s panic and authoritarian mindset. PTI SDA ARI
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