Death of B.Ed. Student Sparks Protests at Andhra University

Tensions ran high at Andhra University on Thursday following the death of B.Ed. student V. Venkata Sai Manikantha, prompting widespread protests over alleged administrative negligence.

Manikantha, who lived in Satavahana hostel, fell critically ill on September 25 and collapsed in his room. “We called the university ambulance immediately, but it did not have oxygen or other essential equipment,” said a fellow student, requesting anonymity. “By the time we tried to take him to King George Hospital, it was too late.” Students claim that with proper medical support, his death could have been prevented.

In response, hundreds of students staged demonstrations across the campus, demanding accountability and systemic changes. They marched to the Vice-Chancellor’s office, accusing Prof. G.P. Rajasekhar of dismissing their concerns. “When we approached him, he labeled us as a mob and ignored our questions about the hospital facilities,” said another student.

The university administration has acknowledged shortcomings in medical support. “We regret the incident and are taking immediate steps to strengthen healthcare facilities on campus, including appointing doctors and additional staff,” a university spokesperson said.

Beyond medical concerns, the protests have evolved into a broader campaign for reforms. Students are calling for clearing pending salary arrears, overhauling recruitment to prevent fraud, suspending management quotas, revising examination patterns, holding regular student elections, and expediting scholarships and fee reimbursements.

The incident has drawn attention outside the campus, with many expressing solidarity with the students. “This tragedy highlights the urgent need for better infrastructure and accountability in our educational institutions,” said a local education activist.

As the situation develops, the university faces mounting pressure to implement reforms that prevent such incidents in the future.