Students stage protest over ragging issue

VARANASI: A suspected incidence of ragging at the Birla 'A' Hostel under the faculty of arts, Banaras Hindu University, brought the varsity officials on their toes. Students of BA first year of the department of Ancient Indian History and Culture also staged a protest near the faculty building on Thursday.

The incidence came to light when Laxman Tiwari, one of the orthopaedically handicapped students (BA first year) of the department living at Birla A Hostel, allegedly received a threat from his room mate and senior, another OH category student (BA third year). The matter was reported to hostel warden. The varsity officials also swung into action to pacify the students. The proctorial board members were also called to ensure law and order.

However, talking to TOI, chairman of anti-ragging squad, BHU, KK Singh said preliminary reports of the incident did not suggest ragging as written complaints made by Laxman Tiwari indicated his desire to change the room, citing problems in adjustments with his senior. The statement of the student would be taken on Friday and proper investigation would be made in the matter, he added.