Police and students clashed during a protest march at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Thursday. Over 50 individuals were detained, and both police personnel and students sustained injuries. Police reported being assaulted, with some officers allegedly bitten during the confrontation. The JNU Students’ Union (JNUSU) countered by alleging excessive force by police.
Clash Details Emerge
Approximately 25 police officers, including senior officials, were injured. The JNUSU reported that its president, Aditi Mishra, and former president, Nitish Kumar, were among the 51 detained protesters. The clash occurred at the college gate as students attempted to march off campus.
The protest, termed a “Long March,” was organized by JNUSU. It aimed to reach the Ministry of Education office. The march stemmed from ongoing demonstrations concerning remarks made by JNU Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit. Other grievances included the rustication of JNUSU office bearers and the proposed Rohith Act.
Students alleged that police used excessive force, leading to injuries. The university’s teachers’ body claimed some protesters were taken to “unconfirmed locations.” JNUSU also alleged that a portrait of B.R. Ambedkar was damaged during police action. Videos of the incident circulated online, showing what appeared to be an Ambedkar photo being taken from protesters, though the authenticity of these videos could not be independently verified.
Protest Denied Permission
Police stated that the JNU administration had informed students that no permission was granted for protests outside campus. Students were advised to confine demonstrations within university grounds. Despite this, an estimated 400-500 students gathered and initiated their march around 3:20 PM.
Police reported that protesters damaged barricades erected outside the campus. They further claimed students threw banners, sticks, and shoes, and resorted to physical assault. Some police personnel reported being bitten.
Police intercepted the protesters at the North Gate of the JNU campus. They gradually moved the students back inside the university premises.
Allegations of Mistreatment
A police official stated that allegations of police mistreatment are baseless. The officer maintained that all deployed personnel were focused on maintaining law and order.
The JNU Teachers Association (JNUTA) condemned the police action. JNUTA described it as a “brutal use of force.” They reported injuries to several students, including women. JNUTA expressed concern for the detained students’ well-being.
JNUTA stated the police action aimed to prevent students from exercising their democratic right to protest. The association demanded the immediate release of all detained students.
Student Demands and University Response
JNUSU issued an appeal for supporters to gather at the JNU main gate. The appeal followed reports of numerous student detentions.
The university administration stated that JNUSU protesters are demanding the implementation of UGC regulations. They noted this action violates a Supreme Court stay on these regulations. The university clarified that the JNU Vice Chancellor and Registrar lack authority over these regulations.
The administration also stated that JNUSU has refused to address the core issue of students rusticated for vandalism and violence on campus. These students were held responsible after a proctorial inquiry.
The university added that JNU is accountable to the government, Parliament, and taxpayers. They criticized attacks on the Vice Chancellor, an OBC woman, as a diversion from issues of violence and property damage.
Legal Action Taken
Police registered an FIR against students at Vasant Kunj North police station. Charges include obstructing public servants, voluntarily causing hurt, deterring public servants from duty, and common intentions under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).