What Led to the Clash at Rajasthan University? Rajasthan HC Grants Bail to NSUI Chief Vinod Jakhar

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan High Court grants bail to NSUI President Vinod Jakhar.
- The clash occurred during an RSS event at Rajasthan University.
- Allegations of political motivation behind the arrest.
- Former CM Gehlot criticized the university's role in the incident.
- Concerns about the politicization of educational institutions.
Jaipur, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Rajasthan High Court has granted bail to three individuals, including Vinod Jakhar, the NSUI State President, amid the chaos that erupted during the 'Shastra Poojan' ceremony organized by the RSS at Rajasthan University.
The bench, led by Justice Anoop Dhandh, approved the bail.
Previously, both the trial court and the Additional District Magistrate's Court had denied their requests for bail.
Following this, Jakhar, along with Kishore Chaudhary and Kamal Chaudhary, turned to the High Court for assistance.
Jakhar contended that he was wrongfully implicated in the incident due to political motives, emphasizing that his protests were conducted in a peaceful and Gandhian manner against what he considered a politically charged event at an educational venue. The confrontation occurred on September 30 during the RSS 'Shastra Poojan' ceremony.
Reports indicate that NSUI activists entered the event to protest and began damaging the stage, resulting in clashes between the two groups.
The police intervened and executed a lathi charge amid heavy rain to break up the crowd. As a consequence of the disturbances, 12 NSUI workers were detained for disrupting public order.
A case was subsequently filed against nine individuals for various offenses, including hurting religious sentiments, damaging governmental property, and obstructing governmental operations.
In response to the incident, former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot expressed condemnation, stating, "It is highly irresponsible and condemnable that the university administration permitted a politically affiliated organization like the RSS to host a Shastra Poojan event on campus."
He continued, "Universities should serve as centres of learning, not arenas for political and ideological conflicts."
Gehlot further alleged that the university officials, including the Vice Chancellor, appear to be under pressure from the RSS, and he believes this incident highlights a growing trend to saffronize educational institutions in the state.
"Following the event, when NSUI members protested against the RSS activities, they were met with violence. Many NSUI members, including Vinod Jakhar, faced arrest. Videos from the scene suggest police involvement in damaging vehicles belonging to NSUI members," Gehlot claimed.