Controversy Erupts After ABVP Students’ Remark in Barmer
A protest against a college fee hike in Rajasthan’s Barmer district escalated into a controversy after a remark made by some students sparked tensions between the administration and protesters. During the demonstration, a few students referred to District Collector and IAS officer Tina Dabi as a “reel star,” triggering a backlash and administrative action.
Protest and the “Reel Star” Remark
The protest took place outside Multanmal Bhikchand Chhajed Women’s College, where students were demonstrating against an increase in college fees. During the protest, two student leaders associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) allegedly made the “reel star” remark about Tina Dabi. The comment soon became the focal point of a heated exchange between the students and district officials.
Police Action
Citing security concerns, the police detained two student leaders. Female students claimed that the detentions were carried out solely because of the remark, rather than due to the ongoing protest over the fee hike. As tensions rose, several women students reached the Kotwali police station and staged a sit-in protest.
Students’ Version
The protesting students maintained that the term “reel star” was not intended as an insult, but was meant as a sarcastic comment on the social media presence of leaders and administrators. They also alleged that despite claims of development under initiatives like “Navo Barmer,” the administration had failed to address local issues such as waste management near the college campus.
The students further stated that their role models were historical figures such as Ahilyabai Holkar and Rani Lakshmibai, and not present-day officials.
Collector’s Response
Responding to the controversy, District Collector Tina Dabi said the incident was being misrepresented. She clarified that the police action was taken purely to maintain law and order following alleged misbehavior towards officials. No formal case was registered, and both student leaders were later released.
Wider Reaction
The incident sparked a wider debate on social media, with users divided over the “reel star” remark and the subsequent police action. While some termed it a matter of freedom of expression, the administration maintained that the steps were necessary to ensure peace and public order.
FAQs: Controversy Over ABVP Students’ “Reel Star” Remark in Barmer
What is the controversy involving IAS officer Tina Dabi?
The controversy arose during a protest against a college fee hike in Barmer, Rajasthan, when some students referred to District Collector and IAS officer Tina Dabi as a “reel star,” leading to tensions between students and the administration.
Where did the protest take place?
The protest was held outside Multanmal Bhikchand Chhajed Women’s College in Barmer, where students were demonstrating against an increase in college fees.
Who made the “reel star” remark?
According to reports, two student leaders associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) allegedly made the remark during the protest.
Why did the remark lead to a controversy?
The comment was perceived by authorities as inappropriate and escalated into a heated exchange, prompting administrative and police intervention, which further intensified the situation.
What action did the police take?
Citing security and law-and-order concerns, the police detained two student leaders following the incident.
Why did students object to the police action?
Female students alleged that the detentions were made solely because of the “reel star” remark, and not due to the protest against the fee hike. This led to further protests at the Kotwali police station.
What was the students’ explanation for the remark?
The students claimed that the term “reel star” was not meant as an insult, but was intended as a sarcastic comment on the social media presence of public officials and leaders.
What other issues did the students raise?
Apart from the fee hike, students alleged that despite development claims under initiatives like “Navo Barmer,” local civic issues—such as waste management near the college campus—had not been adequately addressed.
What did the students say about their role models?
The protesting students stated that their role models are historical figures like Ahilyabai Holkar and Rani Lakshmibai, rather than present-day administrative officials.
How did District Collector Tina Dabi respond?
Tina Dabi said the incident was being misrepresented and clarified that the police action was taken only to maintain law and order after alleged misbehavior towards officials.
Were any cases registered against the students?
No formal case was registered. The two detained student leaders were later released, according to official statements.
How did the public react to the incident?
The incident triggered a wider debate on social media, with opinions divided between concerns over freedom of expression and support for administrative action to maintain public order.
