VIT fined students for reciting Hanuman Chalisa in hostel rooms [ Madhya Pradesh, India]

[ Reported as seen]

A fine of rupees 5000 was imposed on atleast 7 students of Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) as a penalty for reciting Hanuman Chalisa in their hostel rooms. The incident took place in the Bhopal campus of the institute. As per reports, a group of 20 students had collectively recited the Hindu devotional hymns in their room.

Few students from other classes complained about this. Soon, the college management sent a notice to 7, second year students, asking them to pay ₹5000 as fine for leading the ‘Hanuman Chalisa recital programme’.

The development was confirmed to Bhaskar by a senior VIT official. He claimed that individuals are at liberty to perform puja in their rooms. The official warned that group events could not be conducted even inside hostel rooms, without seeking prior permission.

The college management has also sought a report from the hostel warden. The second-year students have launched a protest against the decision of VIT Bhopal. They have accused their juniors of ratting them out.