Ganderbal, Oct 12: Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone) Sujit Kumar on Monday called on university administrations to adopt a balanced approach to student protests, stressing the need to address genuine grievances through dialogue while taking action against unlawful activities.
Addressing participants at a two-day national workshop on “Reimagining Higher Education Administration for Viksit Bharat@2047” in Ganderbal, Kumar said institutional heads should engage with students in time and distinguish between legitimate concerns and unacceptable demands.
He said students sometimes resort to protests without first bringing their grievances to the notice of the administration, making timely communication and preventive measures important to maintaining order on campuses.
Kumar said educational institutions enjoy a special environment, but this does not place unlawful activities beyond the reach of the law. Police can intervene when required, particularly on a formal request from the competent university authority, he said.
Referring to provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the IGP said unlawful assembly, rioting and offences committed in pursuit of a common objective carry legal consequences, including imprisonment and fines.
“University campuses cannot become a shield for unlawful activities, and those who violate the law must be dealt with in accordance with its provisions,” he said.
Kumar urged institutional heads to uphold the law while exercising sound judgement and ensuring that student grievances are addressed through dialogue and appropriate administrative channels.
