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A controversy has erupted at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) after the administration denied permission for a Holi Milan event inside the campus. Some students have alleged discrimination and have threatened to take the issue to Prime Minister Narendra Modi if permission is not granted.

 

Akhil Kaushal, a master's degree student, had submitted a request on February 25 on behalf of Hindu students. The letter, addressed to the Vice Chancellor, sought permission to hold the event at the NRSC Club on March 9.

 

However, the university proctor, Wasim Ali, later informed the students that the administration had declined the request.

 

Kaushal has claimed that religious events of other faiths are allowed at AMU, while Hindu students are being stopped from organizing their festival.

 

He stated that if the administration does not grant permission, students will release audio and video recordings of discussions on social media. He also recalled that Prime Minister Modi had referred to AMU as "Mini India" and urged the university to respect all religions.

 

The university proctor defended the decision, saying that no special events have ever been allowed on campus. He clarified that students are free to play Holi in their hostel rooms or general campus areas but cannot hold an organized celebration at a specific venue.

 

Professor Vibha Sharma from AMU’s Public Relations Department added that the university administration has not taken any decision on allowing such events.

 

She stated that AMU does not intend to introduce new traditions but that all festivals, including Holi, have always been celebrated informally on campus.

 

The decision has drawn criticism from several Hindu organizations. The All India Karni Sena staged a protest, demanding equal treatment of all festivals at AMU. Political leaders have also reacted to the issue.

 

Samajwadi Party leader Ashutosh Verma urged the university to reconsider its stance, stating that no one should be stopped from celebrating festivals.

 

Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh also questioned the decision, saying that if a university supports only one religion, the matter should be re-evaluated.

 

Former Agra Mayor and BJP leader Shakuntala Bharti strongly criticized the administration. She asserted that AMU belongs to everyone and warned that if Holi is not allowed, then Eid celebrations should also be reconsidered.