The sentences handed down to Bahraini medics who treated participants of anti-government rallies earlier this year made headlines recently. But a somewhat neglected story has been that of professors and students allegedly dismissed from universities for their participation in the protests.
On October 3, six university students were sentenced to 15-year jail terms and another student to an 18-year term by a special military court. They were accused of attempted murder, arson, and vandalism in connection with clashes that took place on the campus of the University of Bahrain, the main national university, on March 13. The students and their supporters say the violence that day was carried out by Bahrain security forces and government supporters, none of whom have been charged.
Other students and professors are facing charges of illegal assembly, incitement, and disturbing the peace. At least 100 professors and university administrators have been fired, and about 60 students have been denied the right to continue their studies.
Read the whole story in the Arabist.
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