Campus fury erupts at VIT Bhopal as jaundice outbreak sparks violence

Tensions at VIT University Bhopal spiralled into chaos late November 25 night after weeks of frustration over a reported jaundice outbreak turned into a full-fledged campus revolt.

What began as health concerns quickly escalated into violent demonstrations, with students alleging contaminated drinking water, poor hygiene, and administrative negligence.

As anger surged, nearly 4,000 students reportedly gathered across the campus — located along the Indore–Bhopal highway in Madhya Pradesh's Sehore district — torching vehicles and vandalizing university property, including damaging the Chancellor’s bungalow.

Police confirmed the situation had gone “out of control”, prompting the closure of the institution until November 30.

Outbreak triggers outrage

According to the police, at least two dozen students have shown symptoms of jaundice in recent weeks. While panic spread rapidly among the student body, the administration pushed back strongly against rumours of student deaths.

“The allegations that several deaths have taken place due to jaundice are baseless,” Registrar K K Nair said. He maintained that the situation was “not alarming”, asserting that food and water were repeatedly tested and found safe. He described the allegations as “motivated and mischievous”.

However, students have contested this narrative.

One student told reporters, “Complaints were ignored and officials refused to address concerns about contaminated water and food quality. Anyone raising questions was threatened or harassed.”

Another student alleged hostel residents were routinely mistreated by staff and guards when they sought clarifications or medical support.

“This neglect and aggressive response to legitimate concerns fuelled the anger,” said the student, adding that many had resorted to purchasing bottled water at their own expense.

Protest turns violent

By late November 25 night, tensions reached a breaking point. Students gathered at hostels and the main campus gate, chanting slogans and accusing the administration of concealing the outbreak. Videos circulating online reportedly show flames rising from burning vehicles as students clashed with security personnel.

Reinforcements from neighbouring police jurisdictions were deployed to regain control and prevent further destruction.

Inquiry underway, campus shut

So far, neither the university administration nor the district authorities have issued a formal statement on the outbreak or the violent unrest. Police have begun investigating both the cause of the illnesses and the damage to property.

Sehore Superintendent of Police Deepak Shukla confirmed that the situation has since stabilized, with many students already vacating the campus.

“For safety reasons, the college has been declared closed until November 30,” he said. “A list of sick students is being compiled and their concerns will be addressed.”

As investigations continue, questions remain unresolved — particularly whether the unrest reflects a temporary health scare or a deeper breakdown of trust between students and the university administration.