Violent Clash Erupts During Protest Against Vice-Chancellor at Jawaharlal Nehru University

A protest against the vice-chancellor at Jawaharlal Nehru University turned violent, resulting in injuries and an FIR registered by Delhi Police. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between student groups.

Several students were injured during a late-night altercation between two student groups at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The Left groups and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) blamed each other for the violence. Authorities have promised to address any disorderly conduct on campus.

The incident occurred around 1:30 am on Monday, following a protest against the vice-chancellor. The Delhi Police registered a First Information Report (FIR) after the Chief Security Officer of JNU filed a complaint involving JNUSU leaders and their associates. Officials stated that an investigation is underway.

Protests and Accusations

The Left-backed Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) organised an equality march, "Samta Juloos," towards the East Gate on Sunday night. They demanded Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit's resignation and the reversal of a rustication order. Protesters claimed the administration ignored them and allowed ABVP members to confront them.

In response, the ABVP accused the Left groups of inciting violence. Videos shared by both student bodies showed masked individuals throwing stones and carrying sticks on campus. The ABVP alleged that Left-backed students initiated physical altercations and attacked women students.

Statements and Reactions

JNUSU accused ABVP members of leading a mob and attacking students demanding an apology from the vice-chancellor for her remarks, which they deemed casteist. They claimed several students were injured and sought refuge in the central library. The JNUSU has called for a Long March to the Ministry of Education on February 26, reiterating their demand for Pandit's resignation.

The university authorities expressed serious concern over the incident, warning of strict action against any unruly behaviour. An official statement mentioned that several academic buildings were reportedly locked by protesting students, leading to a scuffle between two groups on February 22.

University's Response

The JNU administration condemned the violence, stating that strict action is being taken under university rules and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Classes and other academic activities are continuing as scheduled. They noted that protesting students entered the central library, allegedly threatening others to join their protest.

The ABVP held a press conference claiming that Left-backed groups attacked students in reading rooms, with about 150-200 people targeting ABVP activists. They reported that many supporters required hospitalisation due to injuries sustained during the clash.

Teachers' Concerns

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association (JNUTA) expressed concern over the violence, comparing it to events leading up to January 5, 2020. They criticised Vice Chancellor Pandit's recent remarks on caste and UGC Equity Regulations as hostile towards social justice. JNUTA urged students to remain calm and avoid provocation while reiterating their call for Pandit's resignation.

Former JNUSU general secretary Vaibhav Meena alleged that Left-backed students demanded reading rooms be closed during their protest. When others refused, violence ensued, resulting in six to seven ABVP members being hospitalised at Safdarjung Hospital. Meena claimed they have medico-legal case reports as evidence.

With inputs from PTI