Calicut University Locks Campus Roads After 7 PM in March 2026 to Stop Drugs and Violence

Calicut University is closing most gates after 7 PM starting March 2026. This is a much stricter rule than last year to help stop drug use on campus.
By Newsroom | Education, Kerala |

Security Measures Tightened on Main Campus

The University of Calicut has instituted a series of restrictive measures for hostel residents on its main campus in Tenhipalam, Malappuram district, citing concerns related to drug abuse. These changes include the locking of all campus roads, save for the primary entrance, after 7 p.m., and the sealing of all but the main access to the men's hostel.

Calicut varsity tightens campus rules amid drug abuse complaints - 1

  • The university administration has stated its responsibility in safeguarding student welfare and maintaining a conducive academic environment.

  • A register will be kept for students exiting hostels after 9:30 p.m., requiring them to document their reasons.

  • Reports indicate these stricter rules were initially set to be implemented from March 6, following discussions with the Registrar. Student Federation of India (SFI) leaders claimed a subsequent withdrawal after these discussions.

Past Incidents Hint at Underlying Tensions

This recent tightening of regulations occurs against a backdrop of varied campus disruptions and controversies.

Calicut varsity tightens campus rules amid drug abuse complaints - 2

Political Friction and Academic Atmosphere

  • The campus has previously seen incidents that have drawn administrative and political attention, raising questions about the prevailing atmosphere. In March 2025, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar expressed disapproval of what he termed the "politicisation of educational institutions" following the display of a banner critical of VD Savarkar. He emphasized the need to prevent such political discourse from pervading academic spaces.

Violence and Campus Shutdowns

  • The University of Calicut has also experienced more severe disruptions. In October 2025, the campus was indefinitely closed due to instances of violence that erupted during and after university union elections. This led to the suspension of classes and the directive for hostels to be vacated. The clashes reportedly occurred despite calls from SFI leaders to continue vote counting, with the Vice-Chancellor issuing an order to halt the process due to security concerns and a lack of adequate provisions for polling agents.

Focus on a "Safe and Student-Friendly" Environment

  • More recently, in January 2026, the new Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Raveendran, articulated his priority as fostering a campus environment free from "hatred and violence," aiming for a safe and student-centric space. He acknowledged that politically motivated violence could undermine the academic setting.

Controversies Beyond Security

The university has also navigated controversies involving curriculum content.

  • In July 2025, a panel recommended the removal of songs by 'Vedan' and 'Gowry Lekshmi' from the syllabus. This decision was met with indifference from 'Vedan,' who attributed the resistance to "deeply rooted social bias" and continued to focus on his creative output. The situation gained political and social dimensions, with criticism also directed at the use of YouTube links in academic materials.

Institutional Functions and Student Welfare

The University of Calicut's Department of Student Welfare (DSW) functions as the International Students Office, with the DSW acting as the International Students Adviser.

  • The department's stated purpose is to contribute to the overall welfare and development of the student community and the university.

  • It also manages student complaints through a dedicated 'Student's Grievance Redressal Cell.'

  • The university attracts a significant number of international students annually for various courses, including doctoral programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Calicut University lock campus roads after 7 PM in March 2026?
The university locked the roads to stop drug use and keep students safe. Only the main entrance stays open now to control who enters the campus at night.
Q: What must students do to leave the hostel after 9:30 PM at Calicut University?
Students must now write their names and the reason for leaving in a special register book. This helps the university know where students are and why they are out late.
Q: Which gate stays open at Calicut University after the 7 PM lockdown?
Only the primary main entrance stays open for people to use. All other side roads and hostel paths are sealed to improve security for everyone.
Q: Why are these new safety rules happening at Calicut University now?
The university had problems with violence and drug complaints in 2025. The new Vice-Chancellor wants to make the campus a safe place for learning without any more fights or illegal acts.