ABVP Protests at Pune University Over Free Education for Girls, Exam Reforms, and Student Council Elections

Pune, 13th February 2025: Around 300 students associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) gathered at the main entrance of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) on Thursday afternoon to voice their demands for education reforms. The protestors later met with Vice-Chancellor Suresh Gosavi to discuss their concerns.

The students called for the complete implementation of the government resolution offering free higher education to girls, the revocation of a university notification requiring an eight-day advance notice for protests or events, and the reinstatement of student council elections from the next academic year. They also demanded stricter action against teachers who fail to evaluate answer sheets accurately, the involvement of regular faculty in the re-evaluation process, and a commitment to release re-evaluation results within 10 days of application.

Aditya Dumbre, president of ABVP’s university chapter, criticized colleges that have not yet enforced the Free Education for Girls scheme. “Strict action should be taken against institutions that are failing to implement this policy. Additionally, the university’s placement cell must step up and ensure students receive adequate job opportunities,” he said.

Dumbre also emphasized the need for accountability in the examination system. “Many students have to apply for re-evaluation because of errors in paper checking. This issue must be addressed urgently to prevent students from suffering due to teachers’ negligence,” he added.

Jyoti Bhakare, SPPU’s registrar in charge, assured students that the university would address their concerns through its Examination Reform Committee and the Examination and Evaluation Board. Regarding permanent recruitment for vacant positions, she stated that the university was actively following up with the government.

Responding to concerns about the circular mandating prior notice for protests, Bhakare revealed that a proposal had been submitted to the university’s management council for reconsideration. “Since a related writ petition is pending in the Bombay High Court, the management council has directed the administration to present the necessary details before making a final decision,” she said.

She further added that SPPU is open to reviewing re-evaluation policies and will escalate the matter to higher authorities. Regarding the demand to restore student council elections, Bhakare noted that a decision would be taken in accordance with the Maharashtra Public University Act, 2016.

On the implementation of the Free Education for Girls scheme, Bhakare confirmed that the university would reach out to all affiliated colleges to gather data on its enforcement. She also addressed concerns regarding the Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil Earn and Learn Scheme, stating that a proposal had been submitted to increase student remuneration, working hours, and the number of working days.

The protest concluded after the students submitted a memorandum of demands, with university officials assuring them that their concerns would be addressed through appropriate channels.