The “Samata March,” organized by students of the University of Lucknow demanding the implementation of UGC Equity Regulations and the enactment of the Rohith Act, was stopped by the administration at Gate No. 3 today.
According to participating students, those attempting to march peacefully to the District Magistrate’s office to submit a memorandum were met with pushing, alleged misbehavior, and detention by the Lucknow Police.
Student groups described the incident as more than a routine law-and-order matter, alleging that it reflects broader concerns about caste-based discrimination and the treatment of Dalit-Bahujan students in public spaces.
Some participants also raised concerns about what they described as differential treatment of protests, claiming that certain other organizations are allowed to march more freely in similar circumstances. These claims, however, remain contested and were not independently verified at the time of publication.
Samar, Vice President, AISA Uttar Pradesh, said: “Today’s incident shows that caste discrimination extends beyond campuses. When Dalit-Bahujan students demand their rights, they face resistance from authorities.”
Shubham Kharwar, General Secretary, NSUI Uttar Pradesh, said: “We attempted to march peacefully and submit our memorandum, but the conduct of the police was unacceptable. We believe this raises concerns about the handling of democratic protests.”
Mahendra Yadav, Research Scholar, University of Lucknow, said: “This incident reflects the challenges faced by historically marginalised communities when raising demands for equality. We will continue to advocate for our rights.”
Student groups further claimed that videos from the site show instances of police misbehavior. Independent verification of these visuals is awaited.
The students have demanded action against the concerned officials and accountability regarding the incident.
They also stated that they will continue to mobilize around their demands for UGC Equity Regulations and the Rohith Act.