After nearly 20 hours of protest, students at Hansraj College secured permission for an artist performance following a breakthrough meeting with the administration.

Tensions escalated at Block C of Hansraj College as students led an overnight protest against the college administration over alleged last-minute changes to the annual fest plans.

The Students’ Union of Hansraj College claims that the college committee had initially directed them to secure sponsorships and then finalize an artist within the collected budget. According to union members, nearly ₹12 lakh was raised following these instructions, and talks were initiated with singer, Navjot Ahuja.

The President Abhijeet Singh stated that three months ago the administration had asked the Union to raise funds and bring in an artist within their budget, which they successfully did. However, just days before the fest, they were informed that no artists would be allowed due to discipline concerns. Another Union member added that a memorandum had also been signed earlier, granting them autonomy to plan the fest.

However, Principal Rama refuted these claims, stating that the idea of hosting an external artist was never formally approved. She cited safety concerns, noting that such events often lead to overcrowding and unauthorized entry by outsiders. She added that even the previous year no artist had been hosted due to similar reasons.

The protest which happened on Saturday night crossed 20 hours and saw students staying on campus overnight demanding accountability and action. While the administration reportedly acknowledged some of the students’ demands, protesters allege that no concrete steps have been taken so far.

Adding complexity to the situation, several student societies have alleged that they were pressured by union members to join the protest. According to a society president, participation was encouraged through calls suggesting potential consequences, such as restricted access to society spaces or disruption of planned events, if they chose not to show support.

Despite internal disagreements and administrative assurances, students remain firm. “We’re not leaving until something actually changes,” a protester said, emphasizing growing frustration over what they describe as being “ignored after being heard.”

After nearly 20 hours of protest, a meeting between the students and the administration led to a resolution, with authorities granting permission for the artist to perform at the fest.

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Image Credit:  Manan for DU Beat

Anjali Kumari Jha
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