On September 25, 2024, students at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) staged protests after discovering Gutkha and other tobacco products for sale at a shop located near their girls' hostel. The protests led to the immediate closure of the shop by university authorities, showcasing the students' collective outrage over the incident. This occurrence follows a prior incident where 750 grams of cannabis were allegedly found at the boys' hostel, further igniting concerns about campus safety and the administration's lack of action. Rahul Sasane, a PhD researcher, pointed out that selling tobacco products within 100 meters of educational institutions is illegal, highlighting a serious breach of regulations. Student leaders from various groups, including the University Students Committee and Yuva Sena, have called for stricter enforcement of these laws and demanded accountability from the shop owner.

Additionally, they are advocating for the removal of faculty members responsible for campus canteens, holding them partly responsible for the situation. The protests reflect a growing demand for better safety measures and oversight within the university environment. As students continue to voice their concerns, the university faces pressure to address these issues effectively.