EFLU STUDENTS RESUME SIT-IN PROTEST

Students from English and Foreign Languages University (Eflu) resumed their sit-in protest outside the main gate of the campus on Thursday demanding the reopening of hostels. Student representatives said that the university authorities were neglecting their demands for over two weeks now.

Earlier, while the management had agreed to meet students after they submitted their demands, students say that since February 18, it was being postponed time and again.

“The university released a circular about in-person classes on February 18 evening while completely circumventing our demands. The truth is that we never demanded resumption of in-person classes. We have only been demanding access to the hostel and other facilities”, said a student.

However, the university has denied the claims saying that the registrar, proctor and other officials had met the students and listened to their grievances. A senior official said that they had told student representatives to meet the authorities inside the campus. However, only a five-member delegation was allowed and the students insisted that at least 10 members be part of the discussion, the official said.

The university has also maintained that the decision not to open the hostels till March 31 will remain, in view of the rising Covid-19 cases in several states.

“Students are citing the example of Osmania University, but they should understand that at Osmania, students come only from three districts, whereas at Eflu we have students coming from all over the world. If we allow even one student on the campus and someone turns positive, it will raise a hue and cry”, he said.