Assam: Gauhati University issues Clarification on Campus Regulations

Staff reporter

Guwahati: Gauhati University has issued an official statement clarifying a series of campus regulations that recently sparked concern among students and civil society groups. The notice, displayed outside the campus, included restrictions such as limited campus access, prohibition of open-air performances, feeding of animals, and video shooting.

“The regulations, which have prompted widespread discussion, are not intended to suppress student activities but are rooted in specific security requirements,” said Prof Utpal Sarma, Registrar of Gauhati University. “We urge everyone to understand the context and not misinterpret the measures.”

The Registrar explained that the original notice was issued in the lead-up to the University’s 32nd Convocation, scheduled for April 25, 2025, which was expected to be graced by the President of India as Chief Guest, along with the Governor of Assam and the Chief Minister. To facilitate coordination with national and state security agencies, the University was mandated to adopt heightened security protocols.

“These included restricted entry to those with valid GU IDs or passes, a ban on open-air performances and video recording, in line with national-level event security protocols,” Prof Sarma said.

Although the President’s visit was postponed due to the Pahalgam incident, the security measures remain in place due to the continuation of Operation Sindoor, a sensitive national operation requiring vigilance and restricted movement on campus.

Addressing concerns about animal welfare, the University clarified that the restriction is limited to feeding wild animals, particularly monkeys, whose aggressive behaviour has become a safety issue. “Feeding monkeys is also a legal violation under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986,” Prof Sarma said. He emphasized that pet ownership is not banned and that several staff members care for domesticated pets responsibly.

He also highlighted that the Vice Chancellor’s residence hosts a stray dog rehabilitation centre, and the University works with certified NGOs to conduct regular vaccination drives for stray animals.

On the recurring issue of waterlogging, the Registrar noted significant improvements. “Despite recent heavy rainfall, the extent of waterlogging has been minimal this year, thanks to proactive coordination with the Water Resources Department. Any localised issues are due to drainage problems outside the University’s jurisdiction,” he stated.

Regarding the video shooting ban, Prof Sarma clarified that only unauthorized commercial filming and vlogging are prohibited. “The University actively encourages student creativity. Our social media teams, led by students from the Communication and Journalism Department, regularly produce content highlighting university life,” he added.

An open-air amphitheatre is available for performances, and three dedicated studios are currently being developed to support student-led media and creative initiatives.

The administration also addressed allegations from certain student leaders, stating that misinformation was being spread to malign the University’s intentions. “These narratives are misleading. Gauhati University is fully committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and safe learning environment,” Prof Sarma said.

He emphasized that cultural expression remains integral to campus life, with recent performances hosted by departments such as Women’s Studies, Law, and Commerce.

 Also read: Guwahati: Minister Atul Bora Suspends Liquor License near GU

Also Watch: