State home minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday defended the police response to protests at Azim Premji University by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) workers who allegedly forced their way into the campus on Tuesday. Should allow varsities to hold free discussion: Parameshwara Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara said universities must be allowed to host discussions, even on contentious subjects “They were preparing to conduct a seminar. Let them take any subject. What else will happen in a seminar apart from discussion? There will be arguments both in favour and against,” he said. He added that the government would act against those who interfered with such events. “Should the police remain silent when people take the law into their own hands and attempt to prevent an event or attack students?” he asked, adding that strict action would be taken to maintain order and protect students and institutions. The remarks came a day after police registered a case against ABVP members under sections related to unlawful assembly, trespass, assault, criminal intimidation and damage to property. The complaint, filed …