Kolkata Police have filed a suo motu case against members of the Progressive Democratic Students Federation (PDSF) after discovering “Azad Kashmir” graffiti on the walls of Jadavpur University. The case has been registered under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which criminalises threats to India’s sovereignty, unity, and integrity. Additionally, Section 61/2, related to criminal conspiracy, has been added to the FIR, escalating the legal gravity of the situation.
The graffiti also included slogans such as “Free Palestine,” “Ladakh,” “Manipur,” “Hasdeo,” “Joshimath,” and “Deocha Pachami (Birbhum),” appearing amid ongoing student protests at the university. The unrest was triggered by an incident on March 1 when West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu visited the campus. During his visit, students demanding student elections gheraoed him, and a confrontation ensued, resulting in injuries to two students after a vehicle from Bratya Basu’s convoy allegedly brushed past them. In the chaos, a car window was also broken, further intensifying the conflict.
Authorities have registered a total of eight FIRs related to the protests, with the latest case bringing heightened scrutiny over anti-national elements. The police, after discussions with university officials, stated that all angles would be examined, but legal action would be taken in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court has directed the West Bengal government to submit a comprehensive report regarding the incidents that unfolded during Bratya Basu’s visit. Sources indicate that the university administration is considering revisiting a 2014 High Court directive that recommended enhanced security measures inside the campus, potentially paving the way for an increased police presence at Jadavpur University.
Despite ongoing exams, students continue to demand an apology from the Education Minister and the university’s interim Vice-Chancellor, Bhaskar Gupta, over the March 1 confrontation. Student representatives have held discussions with university authorities, who requested leniency from the police for students facing legal action. However, law enforcement insists that those summoned must comply with due process. The graffiti incident has fueled debates over the nature of student activism at Jadavpur University, which has historically been a hub for Left-leaning groups.
