Students’ protest continues at HAU, written assurance sought from govt

The ongoing student agitation at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCS HAU), Hisar, has entered a crucial phase, with protesters giving the government a deadline till July 1 to act on their demands. The students, who had earlier announced they would lock all university gates on June 27, have now postponed the blockade after a late-night meeting with a government official.

CM urges calm, warns against political influence

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Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has urged students to return to their studies and not be misled by political groups. “The students are like my own children. I want them to focus on their future and avoid falling into political traps. Politicians should not provoke youth,” he said.

Over 9,000 to appear for entrance exam tomorrow

The university has completed preparations for its June 28 entrance examination for various undergraduate and postgraduate science and biotechnology courses. A total of 9,094 candidates have registered for the exam, which will be conducted at 17 centres across Hisar.

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Students allege denial of basic facilities

Protesting students have alleged that the university administration is deliberately withdrawing basic amenities in an attempt to suppress their movement. “We are facing a serious crisis,” the students said. “There is complete mismanagement regarding cut-offs and now even drinking water, mess facilities, and hostel access are being denied to us.”

The protest, which began on June 11, was sparked by an alleged lathi-charge on students by university professors and security guards when they raised concerns about scholarship-related issues. The students have since been demanding strict action against the accused and the removal of Vice- Chancellor Dr BR Kamboj.

On June 25, talks between student leaders and state government representatives offered a glimmer of hope. According to the students, the government verbally agreed to several key demands — placing the VC on six months' leave and forming a high-level inquiry committee comprising a retired judge and an IAS officer. However, the lack of written confirmation led to continued mistrust.

“We are still standing strong, even in the rain. We won’t back down until our demands are fully met,” said student leader Mohan Manderna, speaking to The Tribune.

The students had planned a university-wide lockdown on June 27. However, a government official reportedly met them around 11:30 pm at the faculty house and requested more time. The students agreed to defer their protest until July 1, but warned that if no action is taken by then, they will lock the university gates on July 2.

“The Education Minister promised immediate action. But so far, only Dr ML Khichar has been removed from the DSWO post. There is no written order on our other demands,” said another member of the student committee.

Several girl students alleged harassment, claiming that the hostel warden forced them to vacate and stop using the mess facilities, even though their exams are still underway. Water supply to hostels has also reportedly been disrupted. They believe these moves aim to break the protest but remain determined to stay until justice is served.

Meanwhile, farmer organisations, including the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, have thrown their weight behind the students.

“If the demands are not met, all administrative work at HAU will be stopped. The government must not underestimate the movement,” warned farmer leaders.

University officials, however, claimed that most demands have already been fulfilled and accused political elements of instigating students.

“The students were celebrating with drums after their demands were met. Clearly, some external forces are keeping the protest alive,” said a senior university official.