MUMBAI, March 7 -- In a move that has inconvenienced thousands of students, the University of Mumbai (MU) has stopped BEST bus number 318 from entering its Kalina campus, citing security concerns linked to an ongoing protest by a former research scholar. The restriction was imposed after Rahul Balkhande, also known as Bhadant Vimansa, a Buddhist monk and former research scholar, began an alleged unauthorised protest on the campus over his demands. University officials said the measure was intended to prevent outsiders from entering the premises and gathering in support of the protest. The decision has disrupted the daily commute of students and staff at the sprawling Vidyanagari campus, many of whom relied on the bus to move within the large academic complex. Currently, two BEST buses number 313 and 318 - are commonly used to reach the campus. While bus number 313 halts only at the Vidyanagari entrance gate, bus number 318 usually travels through the campus. Because of this, the 318 route has been a preferred option for many students. However, for nearly a month, the bus has stopped entering the campus. Students say the change has increased both travel time and expenses. Many are now forced to take shared autorickshaws from Kurla or Santacruz railway stations to reach their departments, spending an additional Rs.30 to Rs.35 daily. University officials maintained that the decision was taken as a precautionary measure. However, BEST officials from said they have not received any formal written communication from the university requesting a change in the route of bus number 318. Despite the absence of a written request, the bus has not been entering the campus for nearly a month....