Published Mar 20, 2026 | 5:40 PM ⚊ Updated Mar 20, 2026 | 5:40 PM
Malayali Professor Dr. Charles Vargese assaulted. (Screengrab)
Synopsis: Dr. Charles Vargese was appointed as the new warden. He proceeded to reorganize and reallocate hostel facilities based on official norms. However, these actions reportedly led to dissatisfaction among certain student groups, particularly those associated with ABVP. It is further reported that he was targeted with protests and pressure soon after his appointment.
A serious incident of violence has been reported from the campus of Indira Gandhi National Tribal University (IGNTU), where Dr. Charles Vargese, a Malayali faculty member from the Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology was allegedly attacked at his residence by ABVP activists.
According to sources, the conflict began following a recent administrative decision related to hostel management. The previous hostel warden was removed and expelled on allegations of illegally allotting hostel accommodations.
Subsequently, in accordance with institutional rules and criteria, Dr. Charles Vargese was appointed as the new warden. He proceeded to reorganize and reallocate hostel facilities based on official norms. However, these actions reportedly led to dissatisfaction among certain student groups, particularly those associated with ABVP. It is further reported that he was targeted with protests and pressure soon after his appointment.
The situation escalated on Thursday, 19 March night when ABVP members allegedly entered the campus and attacked Dr. Vargese at his residence.
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding campus safety and the increasing politicization of administrative decisions within educational institutions.
University authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, faculty members and students have expressed shock and concern, demanding immediate action and stronger measures to ensure safety on campus.
The teachers association has reportedly begun protests demanding strict action against the perpetrators.
Further investigation into the incident is expected.
(With inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
