Mumbai police registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Monday against 10 students of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS). The students are accused of organizing an event on campus Sunday without official permission. The event marked the death anniversary of former Delhi University professor G.N. Saibaba.
During the event, students reportedly raised slogans. These slogans expressed support for former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid. Both Imam and Khalid are currently in custody. They face charges related to the Delhi riots case.
The Unauthorized Event
The alleged event occurred on Sunday within the TISS campus in Mumbai’s Chembur area. Students gathered to observe the first death anniversary of G.N. Saibaba. Officials confirmed students did not obtain necessary permission. Authorization from both institute authorities and police was required.
A police official stated the unauthorized nature of the gathering. Lack of official approval is a key point in the charges. The TISS administration subsequently filed a formal complaint regarding the incident.
Police Action and Charges
Following the TISS administration’s complaint, the Trombay police acted. They registered a case on Monday against the 10 identified students and other individuals. The FIR includes multiple serious charges.
The charges levied against the students are:
- Illegal Assembly: Gathering without proper legal authorization.
- Causing Prejudice to the Nation: Actions perceived to harm national interests or security.
- Causing Enmity Between Various Groups: Inciting discord or hostility among different community segments.
Police have launched an official investigation into the matter. They have also issued notices to the accused students. This initiates the formal legal process.
Understanding G.N. Saibaba
G.N. Saibaba was a former professor at Delhi University. He gained public attention due to legal proceedings against him. Police arrested Saibaba in a case alleging Maoist links. He denied these allegations throughout his trial.
The Bombay High Court acquitted Saibaba in 2024. He died on October 12 last year while in custody. His death triggered various reactions and renewed calls for justice from his supporters.
Context: Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid
Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid are former students of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). They are prominent figures in student activism. Both are currently imprisoned in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots.
Imam faces charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Khalid is also accused in a larger conspiracy case related to the riots. Their cases remain high-profile, drawing significant public and media attention.
The Legal Process Explained
An FIR marks the beginning of a criminal investigation. It formally records a complaint of a cognizable offense. Police then gather evidence and conduct inquiries.
The charge of ‘illegal assembly’ applies when a group gathers without legal sanction. This often includes not seeking permission for public or campus events. ‘Causing prejudice to the nation’ and ‘causing enmity between various groups’ are serious sections of the Indian Penal Code. They address actions believed to threaten national integrity or communal harmony.
These charges carry potential legal consequences. The ongoing police probe will determine if the students’ actions meet the legal criteria for conviction under these sections.
Next Steps
The police investigation is currently underway. The issued notices require the accused students to cooperate with the authorities. Further legal action will depend on the findings of this probe.
Students and the TISS administration will closely observe developments. The case highlights regulations regarding campus activities and freedom of expression. It also underscores legal boundaries for public gatherings and speech.