Silchar: The National Institute of Technology Silchar has barred all forms of prayer and religious gatherings in open and shared hostel spaces, citing the need to maintain discipline and harmony on campus.In a directive issued by the Dean of Students’ Welfare (DSW) on Friday, the institute said corridors, balconies, rooftops and common rooms across all hostels must not be used for any collective religious activity. Students, however, remain free to practise their faith privately within their rooms.“It has been observed that certain activities are being organised in common areas which may disturb the peaceful academic environment of the hostels. To ensure discipline and harmony among the diverse student body, all religious gatherings in common areas are strictly prohibited with immediate effect,” the circular stated.The order warns that violations will be treated as acts of indiscipline and may invite strict action under institute rules. Hostel wardens have been directed to ensure compliance.The move comes amid rising tensions on campus. The Bajrang Dal’s Cachar unit recently submitted a memorandum to district authorities alleging that hostel spaces were being misused for “jihadi activities” and unauthorised prayers. It also accused sections of the administration and faculty of bias, claiming Hindu students were prevented from celebrating Saraswati Puja while Iftar and Eid events were encouraged.The organisation further alleged that mess practices and use of common areas were insensitive to Hindu sentiments and demanded a probe into certain faculty members’ roles.Institute authorities have not publicly responded to the specific allegations but described the directive as a routine administrative step to preserve the secular ethos and avoid friction among students from diverse backgrounds.The controversy follows a series of incidents that have kept the institute under scrutiny. In September 2025, five Bangladeshi students were suspended and deported after a violent clash in a hostel, during which narcotics were allegedly recovered. Earlier, a Special Investigation Team had also examined claims of a “radical nexus” linked to a former international student and possible violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act.Meanwhile, the Bajrang Dal has warned of protests if its demands are not addressed, even as the institute moves to enforce its latest order.
