In a move to maintain a peaceful educational environment, Pune City Police have enacted a ban on gatherings in and around the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) campus, invoking Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).
The decision comes on the heels of recent confrontations involving students and members associated with the Students Federation of India (SFI) and Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Tensions flared when the Pune City unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a protest against objectionable graffiti concerning Prime Minister Narendra Modi on SPPU hostel walls.
Dr. Prafulla Pawar, the Registrar of SPPU, stressed the need for measures to ensure a tranquil environment conducive to education in a letter submitted to the local Chatushringi police station.
Pawar stated, “The renowned university, which attracts both national and international students, has faced disruptions due to unauthorized marches, protests, and demonstrations within the SPPU premises, as well as external gatherings for various events that have caused disturbances.”
Under the orders of Joint Commissioner of Police Sandeep Karnik, Section 144 is in effect from 07/11/2023 to 21/11/2023, and it includes the following provisions:
- Non-students are prohibited from congregating within 100 meters of Savitribai Phule Pune University.
- Gatherings of two or more persons within SPPU premises are restricted, excluding students, teachers, staff, and police officers.
- The use of loudspeakers in the university area is banned.
- Objectionable printed text placement is forbidden to prevent disputes between groups.
Violations may result in punishment under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). These measures are intended to restore order and safeguard the educational atmosphere at SPPU.
