Hanuman Chalisa Recited After Namaz at Lucknow University, Hindu Groups Clash With Police

Lucknow: The controversy that started regarding Namaz in Lal Baradari campus of Lucknow University has now come out in the open. After the mosque gate was closed, a group of students offered namaz outside, in response to which students associated with some Hindu organizations recited Hanuman Chalisa. On Tuesday, there was a tense situation on the campus due to the activities of both the parties. Seeing the situation, the administration immediately deployed additional police force.

Why was the decision taken to close the gate of the mosque?

The university administration says that the main gate of the mosque located at Lal Baradari was temporarily closed to maintain security and order. According to the administration, prior permission is necessary for any mass religious program on the campus. After the gates were closed, some students offered Namaz outside, about which objection was raised.

How did Hanuman Chalisa recitation start after Namaz?

After the pictures of Namaz surfaced, some Hindu organizations called it a violation of the rules. He said that if namaz can be done in a public place then they can also do religious recitation. After this a group of students recited Hanuman Chalisa near the mosque. During this, sloganeering also took place, due to which the atmosphere became more heated.

Did a conflict arise on campus?

Both the sides came face to face for some time. Police and university administration reached the spot and took control of the situation. Officials say that there was no violence, but in view of the tension, security has been increased as a precautionary measure.

What action did the police take?

Police have issued notices to 13 students who offered namaz and asked them to furnish a bond to maintain peace. The administration has made it clear that permission is necessary for any religious activity on the university campus. Action will be taken against violation of rules.

What are both sides saying?

The students who offered namaz say that they were only following their faith and did not want any kind of controversy. He alleges that due to the sudden closing of the gate of the mosque, he had to offer namaz outside. On the other hand, the students who recited Hanuman Chalisa say that they were demanding equal rights.

Is there a possibility of further tension?

The administration has increased police deployment on the campus and has appealed to student organizations to exercise restraint. The university has clarified that any activity that affects the academic environment will not be tolerated. At present the situation is under control, but the administration is continuously monitoring. This development has once again intensified the debate regarding religious activities on university campuses.