Azim Premji University Kashmir Row: ABVP Protest Turns Violent, 18 Detained

By: Javid Amin | 24 February 2026

Kashmir Discussion Sparks Campus Confrontation in Bengaluru

A Kashmir-related discussion at Azim Premji University in Bengaluru escalated into violence on February 24, 2026, after members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) allegedly entered the campus, assaulted a student, and vandalized university property.

The Azim Premji University Kashmir row has reignited debate around campus safety, academic freedom, and the politicization of university spaces.

What Happened

A student-organized discussion on women’s resistance in Kashmir was underway on campus.
ABVP members reportedly entered the university premises during the event.
Students alleged assault, vandalism, and defacement of campus property.
Participants were labeled “anti-nationals,” and the discussion was disrupted.

The confrontation quickly intensified, prompting police intervention later in the evening.

Immediate Police Action

Police removed ABVP members from campus.
18 activists were detained on charges related to vandalism and assault.
Security presence was maintained to prevent further escalation.

University authorities clarified that the event was not officially authorized by the administration but condemned the violence unequivocally.

Why the Azim Premji University Kashmir Row Matters

Campus Safety

The incident has raised serious questions about the ability of universities to protect students during politically sensitive discussions.

Freedom of Expression

Kashmir-related topics often sit at the intersection of academic inquiry and political contestation. Critics argue that disruptions undermine institutional commitment to dialogue.

Criminal vs Political Accountability

With 18 detentions, the case now moves beyond campus governance into legal scrutiny.

Broader Mapping: Kashmir-Related Campus Unrest (2016–2026)

The Azim Premji University Kashmir row is not an isolated episode. Over the past decade, similar tensions have surfaced across major Indian campuses.

1️⃣ Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi

2016 controversy over alleged “anti-national” slogans.
Repeated clashes during Kashmir-related seminars.
Counter-protests frequently organized by ABVP.

The JNU episode became a defining moment in national debates over free speech.

2️⃣ Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Delhi

Protests following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
Police intervention on campus.
Reports of intimidation during solidarity events linked to Kashmir.

3️⃣ Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Uttar Pradesh

Harassment of Kashmiri students after the Pulwama attack (2019).
Demands by student groups for expulsions.
Police protection provided to Kashmiri students.

4️⃣ Punjab & Haryana Universities

Tensions over Ramadhan meal arrangements and Eid observances.
Student bodies stepping in to mediate disputes.

5️⃣ Azim Premji University (2026)

ABVP members allegedly enter campus.
Assault and vandalism reported.
18 detained; administration condemns violence.

Patterns & Insights Across Campuses

Trigger Points

Kashmir-linked seminars, protests, and cultural programs frequently attract counter-mobilization and allegations of “anti-national” activity.

Groups Involved

Student wings like ABVP often mobilize rapidly against events perceived as politically sensitive.

Student Vulnerability

Kashmiri students studying outside the Valley report heightened vulnerability during national security flashpoints.

Institutional & Police Response

Common pattern includes:

University distancing from student-led events.
Police entry into campus.
Detentions and legal proceedings.

The Core Debate

The Azim Premji University Kashmir row underscores three persistent tensions:

Academic Freedom vs Nationalist Mobilization
Student Safety vs Political Activism
Campus Autonomy vs State Intervention

As universities increasingly become arenas of ideological contestation, Kashmir remains one of the most politically sensitive subjects in academic discourse.

Conclusion

The Azim Premji University Kashmir row fits into a broader national pattern where discussions on Kashmir frequently trigger confrontation, mobilization, and legal action.

While police detentions may restore short-term order, the deeper question remains unresolved:

Can Indian universities create spaces where politically sensitive topics like Kashmir are debated without intimidation or violence?

The answer will shape not just campus culture, but the broader trajectory of democratic discourse in higher education.