Abhay Verma
Dharamshala – The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Himachal Pradesh, has strongly condemned what it termed as a “barbaric lathi-charge” on its peaceful protesters during the Dhauladhar Assembly gherao in Kangra district.
ABVP leaders alleged that the police, acting on the instructions of the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu government, resorted to force against students who were demonstrating peacefully to press their 11-point charter of demands.
Background of the Protest
For several months, ABVP has been organizing peaceful movements, sit-ins, and demonstrations across districts, colleges, and universities in Himachal Pradesh. Their demands include:
- Improvement of the education system
- Appointment of permanent staff in colleges
- Hostel and council-related reforms
- Other essential student welfare measures
ABVP claims that despite repeated appeals, the state government ignored these issues, leading to widespread anger among the student community.
Allegations of Excessive Force
During the protest at the Assembly, ABVP alleged that police used excessive force, including:
- Beating male and female students with lathis
- Dragging and kicking female students
- Using abusive language against protesters
The organization described the incident as “inhuman and shameful,” raising serious concerns about the safety of daughters in Himachal Pradesh.
ABVP’s Stand
ABVP Himachal Pradesh stated that the incident reflects the government’s frustration and failure, accusing it of adopting a “dictatorial approach” instead of democratic dialogue.
“The government cannot suppress student power. Until concrete decisions are taken on our 11 demands and strict action is initiated against those responsible, ABVP will intensify its struggle,” the statement read.
