DUSU is also pushing for a Metro Concession Pass for university students and plans to hold a meeting with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta (Express Archives)A rise in hostel fees, absence of free transport facilities within the campus, lack of air-conditioned classrooms, and high sports complex fees were among the grievances raised by students on Tuesday as they staged a protest at Delhi University. The demonstration was led by the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI)-backed Delhi University Students Union (DUSU).DUSU president Ronak Khatri has threatened a fast-unto-death and a bigger protest if their demands are not heeded.In a formal letter addressed to Vice Chancellor Prof Yogesh Singh, DUSU sought an immediate resolution to their issues, stating, “We demand an urgent resolution within 15 days of receiving this letter. Formal directives must be issued to the respective principals, estate officers, and provosts of departments concerned, facilities, and colleges to initiate necessary actions.”One of the primary triggers for the protest was said to be a hike of 25% in hostel fees, which students say, has made accommodation provided by the varsity unaffordable for many. The students’ union has also demanded the construction of at least 10 new hostels, particularly near off-campus colleges, and a reversal of the fee hike. Students are also calling for free access to DU sports complexes, gym facilities, and an expansion of bus and e-rickshaw services to address transport difficulties for students commuting to distant colleges.“If no concrete action is taken within the stipulated time, we will organise an even bigger protest and undertake a fast-unto-death in front of the Vice Chancellor’s office,” DUSU president Ronak Khatri said.DUSU is also pushing for a Metro Concession Pass for university students and plans to hold a meeting with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to press for the demand. If the government does not take action, Khatri warned, “We will proceed with a ‘Vidhan Sabha Gherao’.”In a statement on Tuesday, Khatri said, “During the demonstration, the students put forward many important demands before the administration, which included: air conditioners should be installed in the classrooms of all colleges, the sports complex should be fully opened for all students, five rickshaws should be provided in North and South campuses, sufficient water coolers should be provided in each college. Apart from this, demand was also made for improvement in other basic facilities.”Story continues below this ad“The demands of the students were heard seriously and the administration assured early resolution of these issues. The students also indicated to continue the struggle till their demands are met.” Khatri added.The statement further highlighted, “The main objective of the agitation was to gherao the Vice-Chancellor (VC) office but due to the vigilance of the police administration, this demonstration remained peaceful. There was no violence or chaos, due to which this demonstration was conducted systematically”The Indian Express tried contacting the administration for a response to the protests but could not get a reply.© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:delhi universityNational Students Union of India (NSUI)