Ujjain varsity V-C office vandalised over appeal to help J&K students

While it was unclear if Prof J L Kaul, who became vice-chancellor of Vikram University six months ago, was manhandled, he was admitted to ICU in a private hospital and was likely to be discharged at night.

In the wake of unprecedented floods in J&K, Kaul had appealed to local landlords not to insist on early rent given that the students may have lost touch with their families and could face cash crunch for some time. Kaul had also said the university will organise a camp to help them and that local residents and social organisations could pitch in with help.

Raising slogans, a group of more than 20 activists stormed Kaul’s office and after a brief chat set about smashing glass panes and computers. They wanted him to withdraw the appeal in retaliation to stone pelting at Army personnel engaged in rescue operations in the Valley.

Ujjain SP Anurag told The Indian Express that it was difficult to explain the vandalism allegedly by VHP and Bajrang Dal activists. He said an offence had been registered against unknown persons but based on television footage and other sources the police would make arrests on Tuesday.

After calling on the VC at the hospital, the SP said his condition was better and that he did not suffer any injuries. As a precautionary measure, police guards have been posted outside the V-C’s bungalow and university premises. The SP said Kaul was immediately provided security.