The Squirrel Siege at Mohanlal Sukhadia University Arts College

In a bizarre turn of events that has captivated social media and local news outlets, a single aggressive Indian palm squirrel has turned the serene Arts College campus of Mohanlal Sukhadia University (MLSU) in Udaipur, Rajasthan, into a zone of apprehension. Over the past month leading up to early May 2026, this 'rogue' squirrel has reportedly bitten between 18 and 20 individuals, including students, research scholars, staff members, and even the associate dean. The incidents, concentrated near the pathway to the Psychology Department, have disrupted daily routines, with many avoiding the area altogether and academic activities facing minor interruptions.

The university, nestled in the picturesque Aravalli hills, is no stranger to wildlife given its expansive green campus. However, this unprecedented series of attacks has highlighted vulnerabilities in campus safety protocols, prompting swift action from administrators and local authorities. Students describe the squirrel darting out from hiding spots like bushes or behind curtains, striking suddenly before retreating, creating an atmosphere of unpredictability and fear.

Profile of Mohanlal Sukhadia University: A Pillar of Rajasthan Higher Education

Established in 1962 as Udaipur University and renamed in honor of former Rajasthan Chief Minister Mohanlal Sukhadia, MLSU stands as the largest higher education institution in Udaipur division. Accredited with an 'A' grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), it serves over 225,000 students across nine faculties and 38 departments. The university plays a crucial role in southern Rajasthan, particularly in tribal-dominated areas, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in arts, science, commerce, law, management, and more.

The Arts College, where the incidents occurred, is a key constituent college known for its Psychology and Women's Studies departments. With its lush greenery and proximity to natural habitats, the campus attracts various wildlife, underscoring the need for balanced human-animal coexistence in educational settings.

Timeline of the Attacks and Immediate Aftermath

The aggression began subtly but escalated rapidly. Reports indicate the first notable incidents around mid-April 2026, with bites increasing in frequency. By April 22, two research scholars were attacked in quick succession. Over six weeks, the tally reached 18-20 victims. The associate dean, Naveen Nandwana, was among those bitten, highlighting the severity.

Students and faculty now report sightings warily, with the squirrel often spotted near the Psychology Department pathway. Viral videos on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) show the campus buzz, with hashtags trending locally and nationally, amplifying calls for resolution.

Health Implications: Low Rabies Risk but Tetanus Precautions Essential

Health authorities, including Dr. Shailendra Kumar Sharma, Deputy Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, have reassured that squirrel bites pose virtually no rabies risk. Squirrels are not typical carriers, and documented human rabies cases from squirrels in India are exceedingly rare—often linked to unusual circumstances rather than direct transmission. However, tetanus remains a concern from any animal bite, and several victims received injections as a preventive measure.

Injuries have been minor—mostly superficial bites on hands and legs—but the psychological toll is significant. The university has coordinated with local health services for post-exposure prophylaxis where needed, emphasizing wound cleaning and monitoring for infection. This incident serves as a reminder for higher education institutions to stock anti-rabies vaccines and train staff on bite protocols, even for low-risk animals. NDTV reports detail the medical advisories issued.

Decoding the Aggression: Wildlife Experts Weigh In

Why would a typically timid Indian palm squirrel turn ferocious? Experts point to several factors. Territorial defense is primary; the squirrel may have nested nearby and perceives passersby as threats. Partial blindness, irritation from bright colors or fabrics, extreme heat stress amid Rajasthan's summer, or nutritional deficiencies could exacerbate behavior. Dr. Sharma noted the animal might feel 'unsafe' due to human proximity.

In urbanizing campuses like MLSU, habituation to humans—through feeding—increases boldness. Squirrels fed scraps lose fear, leading to conflicts. Wildlife biologists recommend non-lethal deterrents like ultrasonic devices or habitat modification over extermination, aligning with India's Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

Photo by Andrey Kozhevnikov on Unsplash

University Response: From Capture Attempts to Expert Intervention

MLSU administration acted promptly, summoning the Animal Aid rescue team twice. Cages were set, but the elusive squirrel evaded capture. Associate Dean Naveen Nandwana stated, "Attempts were made by the Animal Aid team to safely capture the animal, but they were unsuccessful. Efforts are now underway to bring in wildlife experts to handle the situation and relocate the squirrel to a safer, natural habitat."

Strict protocols now mandate immediate reporting of sightings. The campus has posted warnings, rerouted foot traffic, and heightened security vigilance. This proactive stance reflects MLSU's commitment to student welfare, drawing from UGC guidelines on campus safety though primarily geared toward stray dogs and monkeys. India Today covers the dean's response and relocation plans.

Wildlife Intrusions: A Growing Concern for Indian University Campuses

MLSU's squirrel saga is not isolated. Indian campuses, often in biodiversity hotspots, face frequent wildlife conflicts. IIT Madras removed monkeys in 2021 amid bites; JNU and DU report langur and monkey issues; stray dogs plague many per UGC advisories. Rajasthan's arid climate pushes animals toward shaded, watered campuses.

Statistics from the Wildlife Institute of India show rising human-wildlife interfaces in peri-urban areas. Universities like MLSU, with 182 faculty and vast grounds, must integrate eco-friendly barriers—fencing, native plant buffers, and no-feeding zones—without harming biodiversity.

Preventive Strategies: Lessons from MLSU for Higher Ed Safety

• Habitat Management: Trim trees, seal nests humanely, install motion-sensor lights.
• Awareness Drives: Workshops on not feeding wildlife, recognizing aggressive signs.
• Collaborations: Partner with forest departments, NGOs for trappings/relocations.
• Health Infrastructure: On-site first-aid, vaccine stocks, rapid response teams.
• Policy Frameworks: Adopt UGC's Animal Welfare Societies model for campuses.

Implementing these can mitigate risks, fostering safe learning environments.

Student and Faculty Perspectives: Voices from the Campus

Research scholars recount hiding behind pillars; one bitten on the hand needed shots. Social media buzz includes humorous memes but underscores genuine fear. "We walk in groups now," shared a psychology student. Faculty praise the response but urge permanent solutions amid exam season.

Regulatory Framework: UGC and State Guidelines on Campus Safety

The University Grants Commission (UGC) mandates Animal Welfare Societies in higher education institutions, focusing on humane stray management, awareness on zoonoses, and ethics. Recent advisories (2025) require nodal officers for dog bites, extendable to wildlife. Rajasthan's higher education department emphasizes clean campuses to deter animals.

MLSU's handling aligns, positioning it as a model despite challenges.

Photo by Jacob Amson on Unsplash

Future Outlook: Building Resilient Campuses in Rajasthan

As summers intensify with climate change, wildlife stress rises. MLSU's relocation success could inspire statewide protocols. Investments in green infrastructure—native plants repelling pests, sensor tech—promise safer spaces. Ultimately, this quirky crisis reinforces higher education's role in holistic safety, blending academics with environmental stewardship.

For aspiring academics eyeing Rajasthan universities, such incidents highlight dynamic challenges met with resilience. Explore opportunities at institutions like MLSU via dedicated job portals.