After 8 years, eviction of illegal residents begins at AU hostels

Allahabad University authorities on Thursday initiated a drive to evict illegal residents from hostels.

At least 37 illegal residents were evicted from G N Jha hostel, the first one where the exercise was undertaken. Such a comprehensive exercise was last undertaken back in 2004-05, said AU officials.

The eviction exercise took place amid heavy police presence between 10 am and 3.30 pm. However, it may have to be deferred as the police are likely to focus on ensuring peace during Muharram.

The authorities were preparing for the exercise since the students' union elections got over in September.

Warden of G N Jha hostel, Prof S K Sharma, said: "A total of 106 rooms of 139 were physically inspected by the Proctor and other officials amid heavy police presence. Of these, at least 37 rooms were occupied by illegal residents. They have been forced to take away their belongings and their rooms were sealed by the university. The remaining rooms will be physically scrutinised on Friday depending on the availability of the force." Sharma added that the total number of illegal residents could cross 60.

AU Proctor Prof Mata Amber Tiwari said: "At many places, the students put up resistance. However, we prevailed and the process went on without much disturbance."

Superintendent of Police (City) Shailesh Yadav said: "We have received requests from the authorities for providing forces on Friday. We will have to look at the possibilities because Muharram may also be observed depending on the sighting of the moon."

In October, alleged illegal residents of G N Jha were involved in a fight with supporters of a candidate, who had lost the students' union election which were held on September 29. Apart from beating up the supporters, they had also set the bikes of one of those afire.

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