Over 100 liquor bottles found on Gujarat University campus, inquiry panel formed

The discovery of more than 100 empty liquor bottles across parts of the Gujarat University (GU) campus has triggered controversy and raised questions about security, supervision, and sanitation at the state-run institution. The university administration has constituted a five-member inquiry committee and sought a detailed report into the incident.

Bottles found near hostels and scholars’ quarters

According to sources, the bottles were found at multiple locations, including the terrace and rear areas of the boys’ hostel D-Block, as well as near quarters and hostels allotted to research scholars. University officials said that while isolated incidents in the past involved the recovery of one or two bottles, this was the first time such a large number—more than 100 bottles—had been found at once.

The scale of the discovery has shocked students, staff and administrators, and has intensified scrutiny of how campus spaces are monitored, particularly residential areas located away from the main administrative zone.

NSUI protests, demands action and police complaints

The issue prompted protests by workers of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), who conducted inspections across hostel buildings and scholars’ quarters. After finding several empty bottles, protesters gathered at the Vice-Chancellor’s lobby and the Registrar’s office, demanding strict action against those responsible.

Among their demands were the removal of private security agencies deployed on campus and the filing of police complaints. Protesters staged demonstrations by placing posters and empty bottles on chairs inside administrative premises to draw attention to what they described as serious lapses in oversight.

Questions raised over monitoring of campus outskirts

University officials noted that several hostel buildings are located far from the main administrative offices near the main gate. Surrounding areas, they said, are reportedly overgrown and not consistently monitored. During inspections, empty bottles and garbage were found scattered at multiple spots, raising questions about whether hostels and adjacent areas are being effectively treated as part of the campus for regular supervision and sanitation.

The findings have led to concerns about how frequently these areas are checked and whether cleaning and security protocols are being adequately implemented.

Notices issued, inquiry to examine CCTV and security lapses

The university has issued notices to hostel wardens and the security officer, seeking explanations. In preliminary responses, officials stated that the bottles were not present at the identified locations on the previous evening.

This has fuelled speculation over how such a large quantity of bottles appeared overnight and whether outsiders may have entered the campus and dumped them, rather than the incident being directly linked to students.

The administration has said the inquiry committee will examine CCTV coverage, security arrangements, cleaning schedules and access control across the campus. While officials have indicated that the bottles may not be connected to student parties, the incident has brought renewed focus on safety, monitoring and accountability at one of Gujarat’s oldest and largest public universities.