With the deadline looming for the demolition of Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur, Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders and workers are staging protests statewide against what they deem a malicious government move. In Ayodhya, a group of SP members took to the streets to oppose the Rampur Development Authority’s directive to demolish 38 out of 40 university buildings allegedly constructed without proper approvals.
They handed over a memorandum to the District Magistrate, urging the President of India’s intervention to halt the planned demolition. The SP workers are advocating for a fair opportunity for all parties to present their case through legal channels regarding the university, established by party stalwart Azam Khan.
Former minister Tej Narayan Pandey spearheaded the protest, with SP supporters voicing solidarity with Jauhar University and accusing the government of pursuing a politically motivated agenda. Pandey emphasized the need for rectifying any technical or documentation issues instead of resorting to the complete dismantling of the educational institution.
Allegations were made that the government’s actions reflect a desire to replace schools with liquor outlets, contrasting with the nation’s aspirations to become a global educational leader. Pandey stressed the importance of addressing any deficiencies in the university’s infrastructure or paperwork within the framework of established regulations, rather than resorting to drastic measures.
The controversy surrounding Jauhar University intensified following the Rampur Development Authority’s identification of numerous violations within the campus. The Authority instructed the university to voluntarily remove the non-compliant buildings within a specified timeframe, warning of official intervention if compliance is not met.
