KSU and SFI activists engaged in fistcuffs after KSU distirct president (Photo: DC)
KOCHI: At least one student was admitted to hospital after clashes erupted between two groups on the Maharaja’s College campus when it was opened after a 53-day strike on Monday.
SFI activists allegedly manhandled KSU worker Sayed Ramzi who made a Facebook post criticising their protests against autonomy status accorded to the college.
A second year BA English student and a native of Lakshadweep, he was admitted to the General Hospital with injuries. He was also on Ramzan fasting which caused anxiety about his health.
The SFI and the left-wing teachers’ union AKGCT ended their strike following talks with the government in the state capital. But the campus remained tense.
The symbolic cleaning of the campus at its gate by KSU activists led by district president Titto Antony by spraying a solution of cow dung mixed with water provoked the SFI workers who allegedly tried to prevent them. Police too arrived on the scene and prevented the clashes escalating.
In protest against the manhandling of Mr Ramzi, the KSU has called for a strike in all educational institutions in the district.
“Since several classes have already been missed owing to the autonomy strike, only black day will be observed in Maharaja’s,” Mr Antony said in a statement. “The SFI activists have turned crazy after the defeat of their strike.”
As the campus opened for classes, majority of girls returned to the classes. Teachers were also enthusiastic.
