BRAOU Alumni Threaten Hunger Strike in Fight Against Ambedkar University Land Reallocation
Hyderabad, October 3, 2024: A significant protest erupted t at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University in response to the decision to allocate 10 acres of its land to Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (J.N.F.A.U.). The Ambedkar University Alumni Association spearheaded the demonstration, demanding the immediate revocation of the land allocation.
Founded to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, marginalized communities, and women, Ambedkar Open University has long been a crucial educational resource. Alumni raised concerns that reallocating this land to another institution undermines the university’s mission. JAC chairman Professor Vadanam Srinivas voiced his worries about the future of education for economically disadvantaged students, particularly those from SC, ST, and BC communities.
The protest, organized by the BRAOU Alumni Association (MA Journalism), occurred during a lunch break, with students expressing their strong opposition to the decision. The University Joint Action Committee (JAC) and faculty members joined in support of the protest.
Shashank Pasupuleti, the state BC Youth Vice President and a former BRAOU student, emphasized the land’s significance for the university’s infrastructure development and quality facilities. He stated that Ambedkar University, with its exceptional environment, stands on par with private colleges and must preserve its land to continue serving marginalized communities in honor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy. Shashank called for the immediate cancellation of the land allocation and warned of a mass hunger strike if the decision is not overturned. He noted that many former students, including private employees and bureaucrats, are prepared to join the next phase of protests.
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The University Joint Action Committee, faculty members, and employees expressed solidarity with the protesting alumni. .
Adding to the protest’s impact, High Court advocates Shivanandan, Sandeep Kumar, vinod kumar ,rama Krishna and Vannala Srinivas canceled their court appearances to show solidarity with the university community.
Bar council member PRANAY from Jagityal postponed his housewarming ceremony to attend, further demonstrating widespread support for the cause.
Among the participants was Lahari Suman, social activist a 10-month-old baby from Yadadri, who arrived by bus with her family, commending the free bus service for women and advocating for the university’s protection.
Students Mp Sandeep Kumar and Sandhya Kotha called for improved facilities, including playgrounds and computer labs. Additionally, Srinivas Chary, a builder, and Prem Kumar, a playschool principal, urged the government to allocate an additional 59 acres for university expansion.
Current students Bandari Srinivas and kranthi kumar emphasized the need for a free canteen and hostels for out-of-district students, highlighting the necessity for enhanced student support services.
The protest reflects the deep commitment of the university community to preserve Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University’s legacy and mission amidst ongoing challenges.
Participants included notable alumni and faculty such as Saka venkatesh waro Dr. Udyani, N.C. Venugopal, Radha Sindhi Mani, Uma Yadgiri, and Sharan, alongside employees Dr. Ravindranath Solomon, Dr. Krishna Kumar Yadugu, Dr. Rama Devi, and Dr. Narayana Yadav. Faculty Association President Habib Siddiqui, K. Prem Kumar, Bhu Lakshmi, Shabeer, Dr. Yashesh Desai, Dr. Kambampati Yadagiri, Dr. Krishna, and Sunil Pothana actively participated in the protest, highlighting the unity and strength behind the demonstration
