Student protesters clashed with police at Kerala University over funding for a youth festival, breaching barriers and blocking access, prompting a water cannon response.

On February 10, 2026, students from the Students Federation of India (SFI) clashed with police at Kerala University in Thiruvananthapuram during a protest demanding ₹50 lakh in funds for the upcoming Youth Festival. The SFI, representing the outgoing student union, argued the funds were needed for the event, citing past precedent, but the acting Vice-Chancellor denied the request, stating only the newly elected student committee could access university funds. Protesters breached barricades, entered university offices, and blocked access, prompting police intervention with water cannons. The incident, part of a day-and-night strike, also highlighted unresolved issues including travel allowances for athletes and past disputes over political expression on campus. The Vice-Chancellor ordered an investigation into damage to office mementos, citing a security lapse.