LUCKNOW, June 3 -- More than a dozen Lucknow University (LU) students began an indefinite sit-in on Tuesday, accusing the administration of suppressing student dissent through the use of FIRs, expulsions and arbitrary fines. Protesters alleged that students who raise issues concerning welfare, fee hikes and campus facilities are being targeted with disciplinary action. "Students are being criminalised simply for raising voices and highlighting shortcomings. The administration is resorting to filing FIRs and punitive actions, threatening our fundamental right to education," said student leader Prince Prakash. Another student leader, Prem Prakash, called the situation one of the "darkest days" in LU history. He claimed police detained and booked him after he questioned the VC about alleged irregularities in fee collection. The demonstrators demanded immediate withdrawal of FIRs, expulsion orders and penalties imposed on students. The students stated the sit-in will continue until the administration opens a dialogue and ensures justice for those affected. The LU administration had not issued an official statement on the protest until the filing of this report. htc...