UP Govt seeks response from Purvanchal University VC over “Killing” statement row; VC issues clarification

NEW DELHI, DECEMBER 31: Uttar Pradesh Government has sought a response from the Vice-Chancellor of the Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University on viral video in which VC Raja Ram Yadav was seen exhorting his students to “kill” their opponents if they ever get engaged in a fight.

UP Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma, who also heads the higher education department, speaking to media said that he had asked Prof Yadav to give his version of the story.

On the other hand, VC has issued a clarification, blaming the media for distorting his statement. Prof Yadav in his statement says, “My statement was intended at motivating students and boosting their confidence. I also tried to inculcate zeal and encouraged them towards their goals. Fighting for one’s right, if he is correct, is not wrong. He should not pull back.”

The VC has denied making any statement to kill others, he said that he is firm on his stand. He says, “I will keep filling fresh zeal in the students to make them brave in order that they can deal with the odds and work hard for achieving their goals.”

The row erupted after a video went viral in which the Vice-Chancellor speaking at a college function in Jaunpur is telling students to kill their opponent if they get into a fight.

In the video clip, Prof Yadav said, “Agar aap Purvanchal University ke chhatra ho to rote huye mere paas kabhi mat aana. Ek baat bata deta hoon, agar kisi se jhagda ho jaaye to uski pitai karke aana aur tumhara bas chale to uska murder karke aana, uske baad hum dekh lenge (If you are a Purvanchal University student, don’t come to me crying. If you get into a fight with someone, beat up that person. If possible, kill him. I will take care of things after that).”