New Delhi: Tensions escalated at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Friday when a planned “long march” by the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) to the Ministry of Education turned violent, leading to clashes with Delhi Police, injuries on both sides, and multiple arrests.
The protest, involving around 400-500 students, demanded the implementation of the proposed Rohith Vemula Act to protect marginalised students, the restoration of UGC equity guidelines, the withdrawal of funding cuts, the withdrawal of rustication orders against student leaders, and the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santishree D Pandit over her alleged casteist remarks in a recent podcast.
Heavy security, including Delhi Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF), and CRPF personnel, barricaded the campus gates in multiple layers, denying permission for the march outside the premises. As students attempted to proceed, scuffles broke out. Police alleged protesters pelted sticks and shoes and assaulted officers — some were even bitten — while circulating videos showing confrontations, including a PhD student allegedly inciting others from a wall and another slapping an officer.
Students, however, accused the police of excessive force, including lathi charges, dragging women protesters, and causing serious injuries with bleeding wounds. Over 50 students were detained, with 14 arrested, including JNUSU president Aditi Mishra, vice-president Gopika Babu, joint secretary Danish Ali, former president Nitish Kumar, and AISA national president Neha. They were granted bail on Saturday by Patiala House Court, though JNUSU criticised the “stringent” conditions and procedural delays as “process is the punishment”.
Both sides reported injuries to personnel and students, with an FIR registered.
The incident has reignited debates over campus democracy, police handling of protests, and ongoing grievances at one of India’s premier universities.