AMU may re-open Dec 1: Vice chancellor

Aligarh, Nov 14 : The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), which was closed for an indefinite period Oct 30 following violent protests over the murder of a student, is likely to re-open Dec 1, Vice Chancellor P.K. Abdul Azis said Saturday.

"Going by the present situation and conditions prevailing on the campus and outside, the varsity in all possibilities may re-open on December 1," Abdul Azis told IANS on phone from Delhi.

"By Monday, we would make a final announcement regarding the re-opening of the university," he said.

According to sources, the decision to re-open the varsity was taken in consultation with the HRD ministry officials during a meeting in Delhi.

Violent protests by AMU students had started Oct 31 - a day after Shahnawaz Alam, a B.Sc final year student of the varsity - was shot dead by assailants.

Around 600 students had blocked Delhi-Howrah rail route for hours, demanding action against those involved in the murder. Protesting students had also disrupted the academic and official work in the varsity and also manhandled some university employees.

Police believe two to three men were involved in the murder. One suspect has already been arrested.