Calicut University’s campus turned into a scene of chaos as clashes erupted during the ongoing Cuff N Carnival event, organised by the Aikya Calicut University Union. The three-day programme, taking place from 13th to 15th January, had been proceeding successfully with student participation until violence broke out.
In a statement, the organising committee alleged that members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) disrupted the event with violent actions. “Despite various attempts to halt the programme, SFI goons have resorted to violence against the carnival organisers. The enlightened student community must rise in protest and isolate the aggressors,” the statement read.
An eyewitness described the tense atmosphere: “The campus is on edge, and both sides are preparing for retaliation. The situation could escalate after the musical event concludes. Police presence is minimal, and there’s a palpable fear things could spiral out of control.”
In response, an SFI representative accused the organisers of bringing in outsiders. “The University Union Council, under UDSF of KSU and MSF, has filled the campus with Muslim League and Congress activists who are not students but outsiders. Clashes erupted when they attacked the students’ union office,” the representative claimed.
The SFI further alleged that the violence disrupted preparations for the zonal festival, with several students, including women, sustaining injuries. “Many students’ clothes were torn during the attack,” the representative added.
The situation remains tense as students and authorities brace for further developments.