HCU VC rejects resignation demand

The Hyderabad Central University Vice-Chancellor, Acharya Appa Rao, has rejected the demand of the students that he should resign taking responsibility for the suicide by research scholar Rohith Vemula. Appa Rao told newsmen on Wednesday that the suspension of Rohith and four others was within the rules. He said he was ready to speak to the students once peace was restored on the campus. He would like to speak to Rohith's family also. Meanwhile, the Dalit students of HCU unearthed information to suggest the Vice-Chancellor had suspended 12 Dalit students in the university in 2002. Between 2001 and 2004, Appa Rao worked as Chief Warden of the university hostels. He split the hostel students into two groups: vegetarian and non-vegetarian. He allegedly brought in the concept of Dalits at that time. The Dalit students expressed their displeasure at the distinction. In 2002, the Dalit students met in him connection with the distinction. During the discussion, Appa Rao at one stage became angry and held a student by his collar. Two student groups were formed. There were demonstrations and soon fights. Two students were injured in the clashes. The matter went to the police. The Dalit students took the matter to the court. But the court quashed their petition.