Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday condemned a student protest at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The January 5 protest allegedly featured students raising “provocative” slogans. Chief Minister Gupta stated the country was “shocked” by calls for bail for “riots accused” and support for “terrorists” on the university campus.
The January 5 Protest
The protest occurred following a Supreme Court decision. The Court denied bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam. Both are former JNU students and prominent activists. They face conspiracy charges related to the 2020 Delhi riots. These riots were a series of violent clashes that occurred in Northeast Delhi in February 2020.
During the protest, students reportedly chanted slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also allegedly chanted against Union Home Minister Amit Shah inside the JNU campus.
Chief Minister’s Reaction
Chief Minister Gupta addressed reporters regarding the incident. She described the students’ slogans as “undignified.” Gupta added that students spoke “against the country.”
Gupta reiterated her stance that the “whole country is shocked by JNU-like incidents.” She specified these incidents involve demands for bail for individuals accused in riots. She also cited support for “terrorists.”
Her remarks came as she greeted youngsters on National Youth Day. Gupta emphasized the youth’s critical role in leading national progress.
Police Action Initiated
Delhi Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) concerning the January 5 protest. The FIR was filed based on a complaint received from the JNU administration.
Police invoked sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in the FIR. Section 352 relates to intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace. Section 353(1) covers statements conducing to public mischief. Section 3(5) addresses common intention in committing an offense.