Mohan Bhagwat Faces ‘Go Back’ Slogans at Lucknow University

Protests broke out at Lucknow University during RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s visit, with student groups shouting “Go Back” and clashing with police. Several students were detained and taken away before his programme began. The campus saw tension for hours, though the event later continued as planned.

What Triggered the Protest?

Mohan Bhagwat was scheduled to interact with research scholars at Lucknow University as part of an outreach programme. The event was set at the Malviya Hall in the morning.

Before he arrived, members of NSUI, Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha and Bhim Army gathered near the campus area. They raised slogans against Bhagwat and the university administration. Placards were held up. Voices grew louder.

Students said they were opposing the presence of the RSS chief on campus.

Clashes and Police Action

As the crowd increased, police tried to stop the protesters from moving ahead. That is when pushing and heated arguments began. Some students tried to cross barricades. Police responded with force.

Several protesters were detained on the spot. Videos showed students being lifted and placed into police vehicles. Some lay down on the road in resistance. Police later moved them to Eco Garden.

There were also reports that a few student leaders were picked up early morning from hostels as a preventive step.

What Were the Students Demanding?

Student leaders said they wanted Mohan Bhagwat to clarify his stand on the recent UGC regulations issue. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed certain UGC equity rules, calling them vague.

Protesters questioned why Bhagwat had not spoken clearly on the matter. They also accused the university administration of favouring organisations linked to the RSS while denying space to other student groups.

According to them, university halls are easily available for certain events but not for opposition discussions.

What Did Mohan Bhagwat Say Earlier?

A day before the university event, Mohan Bhagwat attended a social harmony meeting in Lucknow. He said that everyone must follow the law. If a law is wrong, there are constitutional ways to change it.

He also spoke about unity in society and said caste should not become a reason for conflict. His remarks on population and social harmony had already drawn attention.

Despite the protest, his university programme went ahead after police cleared the area.

Campus Under Heavy Security

The university remained under tight security throughout the day. Police presence was high around entry gates and near the auditorium. The situation was brought under control, though tension stayed in the air.

Such protests are not new in university spaces. Campuses often become centres of political expression. Still, scenes of students being carried away made strong visuals.

For now, Lucknow University returns to normal routine. But the debate around free speech, campus politics and invited speakers continues. And it likely won’t end soon.