Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, May 15: Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Jammu Kashmir, has expressed serious concern regarding the recent circular issued by the District Administration Kathua pertaining to student participation in protest activities.
ABVP stated that while student welfare, safety, discipline, and the academic environment must always remain a priority, imposing broad restrictions through administrative circulars cannot be considered a constructive or democratic solution to public grievances. The organization emphasized that instead of discouraging expression through restrictive measures, the administration should focus on conducting fair, transparent, and time-bound inquiries into the genuine complaints raised by students, parents, and citizens.
Sannak Shrivats, State secretary ABVP Jammu Kashmir while talking to reporters said his organization firmly believes that school-going children should never be misused or influenced for activities that negatively affect their education and discipline. At the same time, the organization asserted that democratic expression and peaceful participation in issue-based educational and social concerns-particularly at the college and university level-are Constitutional rights that must be respected in a democratic society.
He said that students are conscious citizens and important stakeholders in nation-building. Any attempt to unnecessarily suppress or criminalize student voices may create distrust among youth and weaken democratic participation. ABVP maintained that responsible and peaceful student engagement should be encouraged rather than restricted through fear or excessive administrative controls.
Sannak clarified that if any individual, group, or organization is found forcibly involving minors in protests or using students for personal or political motives, the administration must take strict and lawful action after a proper investigation. However, generalized restrictions through circulars without addressing the root causes of public concern are neither balanced nor effective.
ABVP Jammu Kashmir demanded the Deputy Commissioner Kathua and the concerned authorities to adopt a sensitive, balanced, and democratic approach that safeguards academic activities while simultaneously respecting Constitutional values, public concerns, and democratic rights.
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