Controversy Erupts at Lucknow University Over Hanuman Chalisa Recitation
Synopsis
Tensions escalated at Lucknow University as ABVP members attempted to recite the Hanuman Chalisa, claiming discrimination against Hindu students. The incident triggered a police intervention and raised questions about religious permissions on campus.
Key Takeaways
Tension escalated at Lucknow University over religious permissions.
ABVP members and others attempted to recite the Hanuman Chalisa .
Heavy police presence was deployed to manage the situation.
Deputy Chief Minister assured an investigation into the matter.
Previous protests highlight ongoing religious tensions on campus.
New Delhi, Feb 24 (NationPress) Tensions flared at Lucknow University on Tuesday when members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), along with Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal activists, attempted to recite the Hanuman Chalisa at the iconic Lal Baradari within the university grounds.
Law enforcement intervened, apprehending multiple students and escorting them away from the area.
This protest was ignited by claims that permission was granted for namaz at Lal Baradari, while Hindu students faced restrictions on reciting the Hanuman Chalisa at the same location.
A protestor remarked, “While permission is granted for namaz here, it seems reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is not allowed.”
In anticipation of the protest, a significant police presence was established at the university, especially at Gate No. 3, where three platoons of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and officers from two local police stations were deployed. The police obstructed the protesting groups from advancing further into the campus.
Bajrang Dal members asserted their intention to recite the Hanuman Chalisa at Lal Baradari. “We have arrived here today to recite the Hanuman Chalisa. Just yesterday, it was a crumbling structure — how has it suddenly transformed into a mosque? Some student groups conducted namaz there, and others supported them. Who was the aggressor?” questioned a Bajrang Dal activist.
In response to the unfolding situation, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated, “The entire situation is under scrutiny. We are committed to managing everything and ensuring law and order is upheld.”
This incident follows previous protests at the university.
On the prior day, students affiliated with the Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha (SCS), the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), and the All India Students’ Association (AISA) held an overnight sit-in protest outside Lal Baradari.
They accused the university administration of intentionally sealing a mosque within the historic structure to hinder Muslim students from praying during the holy month of Ramzan.
Point of View
I observe that the incident at Lucknow University underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding religious expression in educational institutions. The situation raises significant questions about equality in the permissions granted for religious practices, reflecting broader societal divides.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protest at Lucknow University?
The protest began when ABVP members claimed that while permission was granted for namaz, Hindu students were denied the right to recite the Hanuman Chalisa at Lal Baradari.
What was the role of the police during the protest?
The police intervened to detain several students and prevent the protestors from advancing further into the university campus.
Who made statements regarding the situation?
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak commented that the issue is under investigation and emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order.
What previous protests occurred at the university?
On the day prior, students from various groups staged a sit-in protest, alleging that the university administration had sealed a mosque to prevent Muslim students from praying during Ramzan.
What is the historical significance of Lal Baradari?
Lal Baradari is an iconic structure within Lucknow University and has been a site for various religious and cultural events.
