ABVP stages protest at Himachal Pradesh University over fee hike, demands student elections

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Shimla, August 13

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) Himachal Pradesh University unit staged a symbolic “dead body protest” outside the university library, opposing fee hikes, the alleged lathi charge on protesting students in Jharkhand, and demanding the restoration of student union elections.

ABVP unit president Akshay Thakur said the organization has been observing a phased 10-day hunger strike against the university’s fee-hike decision. He said the ABVP had been protesting through memorandums, demonstrations and sit-ins since the decision was announced on March 28, but alleged that the administration had taken no positive action.

Thakur claimed that fees had been increased by 25% to 147% across various courses, while administrative charges had reportedly risen by 100% to 150%. He alleged that hostel fees and bus fares had also been increased despite students facing inadequate basic facilities.

The ABVP leader criticized the alleged lathi charge against students protesting against a paper leak in Jharkhand, saying students should be allowed to raise their demands peacefully.

The organization also demanded the immediate restoration of student union elections, stating that elected representatives would provide students with a platform to raise their concerns with the university administration.

ABVP said its phased hunger strike would continue until its demands are met and warned of broader, more intense agitation if the administration and the government fail to act.

The organization has demanded the withdrawal of the fee hike, no increase in running-semester and non-subsidized seat fees, a maximum 5% hike for subsidized seats, limits on increases in examination and administrative charges, and refunds or adjustments for students who have already paid increased fees.