Jamia's decision to support Delhi blasts accused gets Arjun's backing

New Delhi, Sept 26 : The decision of Jamia Millia Islamia University to provide legal aid to two of its students accused in the Delhi serial blasts is being backed by Human Resources Development Minister Arjun Singh.

Jamia's Vice-Chancellor Professor Mushirul Hasan met Singh to apprise him of the decision of the university to provide legal aid to the two students.

The move has been criticised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Singh said, "There is nothing wrong in providing legal aid. In this case, I have got full details. Whatever Mushirul Hasan told me, I understand in this context, the decision of the university is in the interest of the nation."

Meanwhile, the BJP has demanded dismissal of the Vice-Chancellor and termed the decision as "atrocious, anti-national and highly objectionable".

Speaking to reporters after meeting the Minister, Hasan said BJP's allegation that the university was diverting the government funds for providing legal aid was "baseless".

"Providing legal aid is the decision of the Academic Council. Legal aid is the constitutional right of every person. We stand by our decision. There is no question of my resignation," Hasan added.

ANI