Bilaspur Univ professor arrested in Chhattisgarh over alleged forced Namaz at NSS camp, probe underway

RAIPUR: A professor at Guru Ghasidas Central University was arrested in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh on Thursday following allegations that students were compelled to participate in a Namaz recital during a National Service Scheme (NSS) camp.
Alleged accused Professor Dilip Jha was taken into custody earlier in the day based on an FIR filed on April 26. The complaint names eight individuals — including Jha, six other university faculty members, and a student group leader, in connection with the matter.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Rashmeet Kaur Chawla told the media that the alleged accused were arrested under provisions of the BNS and Chhattisgarh Freedom of Religion Act for allegedly promoting religious enmity and hurting religious sentiments.
According to the police, the alleged incident occurred on March 31 during an NSS camp held in Shivtarai village in Kota. There were allegations that 159 students were compelled to offer Namaz, even though only four of them were Muslim.
The matter came to light after students raised concerns upon returning from the week-long camp, held between March 26 and April 1. Their complaints led to protests by right-wing groups, who demanded strict action against those responsible.
Following the ruckus, Bilaspur Senior Superintendent of Police Rajnesh Singh ordered an inquiry. A four-member panel, led by City SP (Kotwali) Akshay Sabadra, was formed to investigate the allegations. Investigation revealed efforts were made to tamper with evidence, and that the accused did not cooperate with the inquiry. Professor Jha was subsequently presented before a court following his arrest.
Based on the panel’s findings, an FIR was registered and arrests were made. The investigation is ongoing. Professor Dilip Jha, however, claimed he was not present at the NSS camp and was being falsely implicated. He stated that he was unaware of any Namaz being conducted at the camp and was not informed by the coordinator or staff involved.
The university administration has also not issued a formal statement regarding the incident or the arrest.