Central University: Campus Safety Under Scrutiny After Hostel Assault at

Central University: Five students of a central university in Madhya Pradesh have been expelled following a violent incident inside a hostel room that left a postgraduate student from Assam seriously injured. The case has raised urgent concerns about campus security, student welfare, and the responsibility of educational institutions to ensure a safe academic environment for learners from diverse backgrounds.

The incident took place at Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, located in Anuppur district, and has since sparked protests, police action, and strong reactions from political representatives and student groups alike.

Details of the Late-Night Assault

According to the official complaint, the assault occurred in the early hours of January 13, around 4 am, when a group of five to six youths forcibly entered the hostel room of a 22-year-old MA Economics student, Hiros Jyoti Das. Das, who hails from Assam, was alone in his room at the time of the attack.

The assailants allegedly questioned him about his identity and place of origin. After learning that he was from Assam and had completed his graduation at the same university before enrolling in postgraduate studies, the attackers began issuing threats. The verbal abuse soon escalated into physical violence, with multiple individuals restraining him while others repeatedly struck his face.

Nature of Injuries and Medical Condition

The victim sustained severe injuries during the assault, including a fractured nose, swollen lips, and blood clots in his eyes. Due to the injuries, he has reportedly been unable to eat properly and continues to experience physical pain and psychological distress. The timing of the attack has further aggravated the situation, as it occurred just days before his semester examinations scheduled to begin on January 16.

Das has stated that the attackers appeared to be intoxicated and that their actions and words made him fear for his life. He expressed deep concern for his safety, noting that he is the only son in his family and does not want to become another victim of campus violence linked to regional or identity-based hostility.

University Action and Internal Investigation

Following widespread outrage and student-led demonstrations on campus, the university administration initiated an internal inquiry into the matter. The investigation relied heavily on hostel CCTV footage and other available evidence to identify those involved in the attack.

As a result of the probe, five students were found responsible for their involvement in the incident. All five, who are residents of Anuppur district, were expelled from the university with immediate effect. The administration stated that such behavior violates institutional discipline and undermines the values of academic coexistence and mutual respect.

Police Case and Legal Provisions

In addition to disciplinary action by the university, a criminal case has been registered by the Amarkantak police. The expelled students have been booked under multiple sections of the law, including charges related to voluntarily causing hurt, abusive conduct, criminal intimidation, threats to life, and offenses committed with common intent.

Law enforcement authorities have assured that the matter is being taken seriously and that due legal process will be followed to ensure accountability.

Campus Protests and Student Response

The incident has triggered strong reactions across the campus, with various student organizations organizing protests and submitting memorandums to the administration. Protesters have demanded a transparent investigation, strict punishment for those responsible, and improved security arrangements in hostels.

Students have also alleged that such violent incidents severely damage the academic atmosphere and create an environment of fear, especially for students coming from other states. They emphasized that universities must remain inclusive spaces where diversity is respected and protected.

Political Reaction and Public Concern

Reacting to the incident, Himadri Singh described the assault as deeply disturbing and unacceptable. She called for a fair and thorough investigation by both the university administration and the police, stressing that discrimination and lawlessness have no place in educational institutions.

Her statement echoed a broader public concern that incidents of violence and regional hostility on campuses can have long-term consequences for national integration, student mental health, and the credibility of higher education institutions.

Broader Implications for Higher Education

This incident has once again highlighted the need for stronger campus safety mechanisms, sensitization programs, and proactive grievance redressal systems. Universities that attract students from across the country must prioritize inclusivity, ensure swift action against misconduct, and foster an environment where every student feels secure regardless of their background.

As investigations continue, the case serves as a reminder that academic excellence cannot exist without safety, dignity, and mutual respect within campus spaces.