9 Students Penalized Over January 29 Ruiya Hostel Clash

VARANASI, INDIA — Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has initiated stern disciplinary action against nine students following an inquiry into the violent clash and stone-pelting incident that occurred near Ruiya Hostel on January 29.

The punitive measures range from temporary academic suspensions to permanent expulsion and campus bans, underscoring the university administration's zero-tolerance policy towards violence on campus.

Breakdown of Disciplinary Actions

Following the detailed findings submitted by the internal inquiry committee, BHU authorities outlined specific penalties based on the severity of involvement:

• Life Debarment for Five Students: Five students have been barred for life from entering the university campus and hostels. They are permanently disqualified from future admissions and employment opportunities at BHU. However, to allow them to continue their education elsewhere, the varsity will grant them migration and character certificates.

• Suspensions & Community Service: Three students faced immediate suspension—one for 30 days and two others for 15 days. During their suspension, they remain barred from academic facilities and the university library. Upon completing their suspension terms, they must undergo mandatory counseling sessions and perform 10 hours of community service.

• Strict Warning for Research Scholar: A PhD scholar involved in the incident received a strict formal warning. Moving forward, the scholar must obtain prior written permission from the BHU Registrar to enter the campus solely for academic commitments, including PhD coursework examinations.

Restoring Peace and Campus Safety

The conflict near Ruiya Hostel escalated rapidly on January 29 when an initial scuffle between two student groups invited a large crowd, resulting in heavy stone-pelting and panic across nearby residential hostels.

With the inquiry concluded and strict penalties enforced, university officials stated that these measures aim to deter future misconduct, protect law-abiding students, and maintain a safe academic environment across BHU's historic campus.