SP’s show of strength in Rampur: Big leaders came to support Azam Khan and save Johar University

Rampur has once again become the focal point in the politics of Uttar Pradesh. Samajwadi Party has come into full action mode in protest against the possible bulldozing action being taken by the administration on ‘Mohammad Ali Jauhar University’ established by former minister and senior leader of Samajwadi Party Mohammad Azam Khan. On the instructions of SP President Akhilesh Yadav, a high level delegation of the party has reached Rampur, so that the entire situation can be taken stock on the ground and a big political message can be given in favor of Azam Khan and the university administration. Let us understand from the perspective of a ground reporter why there has been a sudden increase in tension and unrest in Rampur.

15-day notice given to 38-30 buildings out of 40, declaring them ‘illegal’

Rampur Administration and Revenue Department have issued a strict notice to vacate or demolish more than 30 buildings out of 40 major buildings constructed in the Jauhar University campus within 15 days, saying they were constructed without valid maps and contrary to rules.

According to administrative officials, this land comes under the purview of government or enemy property and this action is being taken in compliance with the previous orders of the court. On the other hand, Jauhar University administration and Azam Khan supporters allege that a plan is being made to destroy this big center of education due to political hatred.

SP delegation’s visit to Rampur and political mobilization

The SP delegation that arrived in support of Azam Khan and his family includes MLAs, former MPs and senior officials of the district.

• Ground Inspection: The delegation visited the university campus and reviewed the buildings which are under threat of bulldozing.

• Strategic Meeting: The leaders have met with local officials and supporters and chalked out a strategy to fight the legal and political battle together.

• Attack on government: SP leaders say that while on one hand such a big institute was set up to educate the youth of poor and backward classes, on the other hand the government wants to destroy it through administrative notice.

Security tightened in Rampur, what will happen next?

In view of the arrival of SP leaders in Rampur and the alert of bulldozer action on Johar University, additional contingents of police and PAC have been deployed in the entire district. The administration is on alert to deal with any kind of protest or law and order situation.

Now it remains to be seen whether after the completion of the 15-day deadline, the university administration gets any stay from the court or whether a major administrative action is seen once again in Rampur.