The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has strongly condemned slogans raised against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). VHP International President Alok Kumar stated that “anarchy” cannot be justified under the guise of free speech. This condemnation followed a student protest on Monday, where participants allegedly chanted objectionable slogans. The protest occurred after the Supreme Court denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam, both accused in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case.
VHP Condemns Campus Provocation
Alok Kumar issued a formal statement, labeling the slogans “unfortunate, shameful, and cowardly.” He emphasized the critical need for constant vigilance against such ideologies within academic institutions. Kumar argued that utilizing a university campus for political provocation and abusive chants directly contradicts India’s established academic traditions. Such actions disrupt the primary goal of higher education.
The VHP leader specifically noted that the atmosphere on the JNU campus became “vitiated” late at night during the protest. This unrest occurred immediately after the Supreme Court’s decision to deny bail to Khalid, a former JNU student leader, and Imam. Both individuals face severe charges related to the widespread violence that occurred in Delhi in February 2020.
Judicial Process and Free Speech Limits
Kumar highlighted that the Supreme Court’s decision was based on “direct and corroborative evidence” linking both Khalid and Imam to the Delhi riots. The court specifically noted their “central and key role” in a larger conspiracy. This conspiracy involved alleged “planned attacks on Hindus” in Delhi during the 2020 events. Khalid and Imam face charges that include conspiracy against the unity and territorial integrity of the country, which are considered grave offenses against the nation’s security.
The VHP asserted that respecting the judicial process and awaiting the outcome of legal trials represents the only democratic course of action. Democracy and freedom of expression, Kumar stated, do not grant individuals the right to take the law into their own hands. They also do not permit promoting violence, hatred, or inciting public disorder. Specifically, slogans referring to “digging graves” were categorized by the VHP as not only “indecent” but also “criminal” in their intent.
JNU Administration Files FIR
The JNU administration has since registered a First Information Report (FIR) against students allegedly involved in the protest. An FIR is a document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offense. A purported video circulated from Monday showed students raising slogans immediately after the Supreme Court’s bail denial for Khalid and Imam. Khalid previously served as a prominent student leader at JNU.
JNU officials confirmed that strict disciplinary and legal action will be taken against any students identified as raising “objectionable slogans.” The university administration explicitly stated its firm stance: “Any unlawful conduct or anti-national activity will not be tolerated” on campus premises. This underscores the university’s commitment to maintaining order and discipline.
VHP Demands Strict Action and Vigilance
Alok Kumar welcomed the prompt registration of the FIR by the JNU administration. He called for a thorough and fair investigation into the incident to uncover all facts. Kumar also demanded strict punishment for any individuals found guilty, ensuring accountability in accordance with the law.
The VHP leader concluded by stressing that such incidents serve as a critical reminder for the nation. Maintaining vigilance against internal threats is paramount and constitutes the essential “price of freedom.” This continuous vigilance is necessary to protect national security and ensure academic environments remain dedicated to learning, free from destructive political incitement.