13 hours ago
GU administration bans ‘animal feeding' & ‘vlogging' on campus
Guwahati: A directive from Gauhati University's administration has drawn criticism, particularly regarding its prohibition on animal feeding within the campus. The notice also lists bans on vlog shooting, videography, and some outdoor performances on university campus.
After a picture of the notice board placed at a university entrance went viral on social media , GU administration on Sunday asked the community to avoid misinterpreting these rules, while explaining their context and purpose.
"Perhaps this was the only thing left for the Gauhati University administration to do in the name of administrative reform. The university administration has clearly stated on a signboard at the entrance of Gauhati University — No feeding of animals," All Assam Students' Union (Aasu) president Utpal Sarma wrote on 'X'.
Aasu president said public educational institutions have administrative buildings where administrators work, emphasising that they should not see themselves as authority figures instead of administrators.
The university administration provided clarification regarding animal welfare concerns on Sunday. They explained that outsiders feeding items like bananas to monkeys leads to aggressive behaviour and disturbances.
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"The restriction specifically applies to feeding wild animals, such as monkeys, which can pose significant safety and health risks to residents," GU registrar Prof Utpal Sarma said in a statement.
"Feeding monkeys, a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, is also strictly prohibited by law," he added.
Prof Sarma said while Hostel Rule 2017 restricts animal feeding within hostel premises, residents may keep domesticated pets.
Many faculty and staff members care for pets on campus. The vice chancellor's residence includes a stray dog rehabilitation facility, where regular vaccinations and care is provided under the personal supervision of the VC.
GU released a statement on Sunday explaining that the notice was issued before the 32nd Convocation, scheduled for Apr 25, 2025, where President Droupadi Murmu was expected as chief guest. The university implemented strict security measures in accordance to directives from state and national agencies due to the anticipated presence of dignitaries.
The measures included restricting campus entry to those with valid university identification or passes, prohibiting open-air performances, and restricting video shooting.
Despite the President's visit being postponed due to the Pahalgam incident, security protocols remain active, officials said. "Due to Operation Sindoor, a sensitive operation necessitating continued vigilance and restricted access, these restrictions are not arbitrary but are in full accordance with national security directives and govt protocols governing high-profile visits and sensitive operations," Prof Sarma stated.
The video shooting and vlogging restrictions were clarified as applying only to unauthorised commercial filming and vlogging.
The administration has requested understanding from students, staff, and the community regarding these measures, emphasising their "necessity for maintaining a safe learning environment".
