Four students from Government Holkar Science College in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, allegedly held more than 150 college staff members hostage, leading to their expulsion. The incident took place after their request for a Holi celebration event was denied by the college administration. The students, despite the refusal, went ahead with the plans, organizing a protest and trapping staff members in a hall. The students scheduled the event for March 7, which included a DJ performance, a rain dance, and required an entry fee of Rs.150. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to the expulsion of the students involved.
The Event and Its Rejection
The students had planned to host the ‘Holkar Ka Holi Fest’ at the college, hoping to create a vibrant celebration for the upcoming festival of colors. A civil services examination organization co-sponsored the event, which was expected to attract a significant crowd. On February 23, the students put up posters promoting the event around the campus, but Principal Anamika Jain quickly intervened. She clearly stated that she had not authorized the event and ordered the students to remove the posters.
Students’ Protest and Hostage Situation
After the posters were taken down, the students began protesting the decision. The situation soon turned hostile when, on February 24, the students reportedly locked the doors of the college’s Yashwant Hall from the outside, trapping about 150 staff members inside. To further escalate the situation, the students cut off the power supply, leaving the staff members in a state of confusion and distress. Among those trapped, female professors also experienced the chaos.
The protesting students trapped the staff for around 30 minutes, subjecting them to heavy screaming and heckling. The situation was so intense that the district administration and college authorities had no choice but to launch a formal investigation into the incident.
Investigation and Expulsion
The investigation, carried out by the district administration, found the four student leaders responsible for gross indiscipline. The report categorized their actions as serious misconduct, severely violating the college’s code of conduct. Principal Jain confirmed the findings and stated that strict action was necessary. Consequently, the college expelled the four students and instructed them to collect their transfer certificates.
This incident has drawn attention not only because of the extreme behavior displayed by the students but also because of the disruption it caused to both staff and students at the historic college, which has been in operation since 1891.
The Way Forward and Investigation
The district administration is continuing to investigate the events surrounding the incident. Authorities are also assessing whether other students participated in the protest and whether they need to take additional disciplinary actions. The college, which has a long history of academic excellence, now faces the task of restoring order and ensuring such an incident doesn’t repeat.
This event has raised important questions about student discipline, campus activism, and the role of educational institutions in maintaining a safe environment for both staff and students. The expulsion of the students involved marks a significant step in addressing the issue, but it also serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding college regulations and respecting institutional decisions.
