Days before Holi, DU students turn pale in fear

With the memories of hooliganism still fresh in the minds, students fear that the volatile atmosphere in the university might be a fun spoiler this Holi. However, the university has ensured safety of the students on the campus to counter any possible acts of hooliganism in the name of Holi.

The students of Delhi University facing continuous protests and hooliganism, fear to celebrate the festival of colours this year. Students stated that they have been facing such problems from a long time but this time, the situation has gone worse. Women students have often complained that outsiders try to harass them while they are walking on the roads during Holi.

"I was walking with one of my friends on the road outside the college campus. Suddenly, two-three boys came and forcefully put colours on our face and also tried to touch us inappropriately," said a student from Miranda College who did not wish to be named.

"We could not complain about the same because we were not able to recognise the faces of the boys due to the colour on their face," she added.

While Holi is a source of fun and joy for most of the students in North Campus, there are girl students who end up bearing the brunt of it.

A Hindu College student said: "I prefer staying indoors during the Holi time. Balloons have become quite a nuisance. Last year I was badly hit by a balloon which had small stones in it." Girl hosteliers also stated that they prefer going back home days before Holi rather than sitting in the hostels or roaming around in the campus in fear.

Meanwhile, to ensure safety of the students on campus, the Delhi University on Thursday said that it has initiated proper security measures to counter any possible acts of hooliganism in the name of Holi on the campus and inside hostels.

"Strictest possible disciplinary actions shall be taken to curb any act of hooliganism during Holi," the DU Registrar said.