Chitwan, November 14

Students vandalised Agriculture and Forestry Science University in Rampur,Chitwan last evening.

Agitating students vandalised the central office of the varsity, agriculture dean’s office, and administrative building.

According to Chitwan SP Sushil Singh Rathaur, students had broken open the door of the administration office, sprinkled petrol and burnt the furniture and documents. Since they could not break open the door of the central office, they set the door on fire.

Police personnel and security guards brought the fire under control immediately after the incident.

University Registrar Manraj Kolakshyapati said property worth millions was damaged in the arson and vandalism.

Police have arrested eight students suspecting their involvement in the incident. “A case will be filed and action will be taken against the arrested after necessary investigation,” added SP Rathaur.

Students were agitated as the university had opened admissions after issuing affiliation to private colleges.

Professors and students have been agitated after the varsity started admission process, including in affiliated private colleges, in the Bachelor first year level.

A meeting of the Executive Council of the varsity held four months ago had decided to give affiliation to seven private colleges to run the agriculture programme and forestry programme to one college.

The Cabinet meeting held one month later had scrapped the decision taken by the varsity’s executive council. However, a writ petition was filed at the apex court challenging the Cabinet decision.

The Supreme Court had issued a verdict not to implement the Cabinet decision. Hearing on the case has been slated for January 10.

The university had started enrolment on November 6. As per the varsity decision, entrance exams for forestry and agriculture have been fixed for December 8 and December 15 respectively.

The central office of the university, which was padlocked by students a month ago, is yet to open.