Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Nov 22: A brief act of offering namaz inside Ideal College in Kalyan triggered controversy after a video of the incident went viral on social media, prompting protests from right-wing groups and intervention by the police. The students involved have since apologised, and the administration has assured corrective measures.

The issue erupted when a clip showing a few Pharmacy Department students offering namaz in an empty classroom surfaced online. As the video spread, members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and Bajrang Dal reached the campus and demanded action from the college authorities. The Hill Line Police were alerted and arrived promptly to prevent escalation.

According to the administration, the students had prayed for only a few minutes, unaware that the act was being recorded. After the video gained traction, campus authorities faced pressure from groups claiming the act violated institutional rules.

Police officers ensured the situation remained under control, but at the administration’s request, the matter was handled internally to avoid disruption to academic activities. The college management spoke to the students, who admitted to offering namaz but clarified that they had no intention of creating disturbance or offending anyone. They later apologised to the administration and staff.

The college reiterated that religious activities are not permitted on campus and stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and adhering to institutional norms. Officials confirmed that monitoring would be tightened and appropriate action taken to prevent similar incidents.

The situation on campus has since returned to normal, and police withdrew after ensuring calm. Neither the college nor law enforcement has issued a formal public statement yet.