Jaipur: Deputy CM Bairwa Distributes Degrees After Student Protest at HJU Convocation

A high-voltage drama unfolded at the Rajasthan International Center (RIC) in Jaipur on Wednesday during the third convocation ceremony of Haridev Joshi University of Journalism and Mass Communication (HJU). The event, attended by Deputy Chief Minister and Higher Education Minister Prem Chand Bairwa, witnessed intense protests from students who felt marginalized by the university administration's degree distribution process.

The Spark of Protest Over Selective Recognition

The controversy began when the university administration invited only 12 gold medalists to receive their degrees on stage from the chief guest. Immediately after honoring these students, the organizers signaled the conclusion of the ceremony. This move triggered immediate outrage among the other graduating students present in the auditorium, while protesting students began shouting slogans and tore up program brochures, claiming that the university had insulted them by not providing a stage for their graduation.

Escalation and Blocking of the Deputy CM's Convoy

Following the formal conclusion of the initial ceremony, Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa proceeded to leave the venue and boarded his car. However, the situation turned critical when a group of agitated students rushed to the parking area and lay down in front of his vehicle, while the protesters refused to move, demanding that every student present be awarded their degree on stage. Security personnel attempted to clear the path, but the persistence of the students forced the Deputy CM to return to the auditorium.

Return of the Minister and Sarcastic Student Remarks

Upon returning to the stage, Deputy CM Bairwa resumed the distribution of degrees to the remaining students to pacify the situation. " This statement highlighted the deep-seated resentment among the student body regarding the management of the convocation. The Minister continued the distribution until the grievances were addressed.

Administrative Lapses and Presence of Dignitaries

The incident has raised significant questions regarding the organizational efficiency of Haridev Joshi University. Students alleged that there was no prior communication regarding the limited stage distribution of degrees. The ceremony was also attended by Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani and Haribhau Bagde, while the protest finally subsided after the university administration and the Deputy CM ensured that all students received their academic credentials in the formal setting.