In a significant move to manage campus expression and preserve its infrastructure, Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi has announced the construction of special 'Walls of Democracy' at each of its eight entry points. This initiative is designed to centralize and regulate the display of posters, notices, and protest-related materials, which have frequently led to the defacement of university property.
A Designated Space for Expression
The university has issued a tender for the project, with the construction work slated for completion by February at an estimated cost of Rs 3.34 lakh. Once erected, these designated walls will serve as the only permitted spaces for putting up any form of campaign or informational material. This step formalizes a 'Wall of Democracy' concept—a common practice in academic institutions to provide a legal outlet for display and protest without violating anti-defacement laws.
Part of a Broader Regulatory Framework
This development is not an isolated measure. It follows earlier actions by the Jamia Millia Islamia administration to bring structure to campus gatherings. Back in October, the university officially earmarked a specific area near gate number 18 as the sole site for protests and public assemblies. A notification issued at that time clearly warned that violations would result in strict disciplinary action as per university regulations.
The issue of defacement is taken seriously at Jamia. The university has existing rules that prohibit damaging property, with penalties including fines of up to Rs 20,000. Official notices have pointed out repeated incidents of slogan writing, painting, and unauthorized poster pasting on campus walls. For those found guilty, consequences extend beyond a single fine; repeat offenders could face more severe disciplinary measures.
Enhanced Surveillance for Enforcement
To ensure these rules are upheld, the university has also stated that surveillance across the campus has been increased. This enhanced monitoring is intended to act as a deterrent and to help identify those responsible for violations. The combined strategy of providing designated spaces ('Walls of Democracy' and a protest site) while strengthening enforcement highlights the administration's attempt to balance the right to expression with the need to maintain order and protect public property.
The move by Jamia Millia Islamia reflects a growing trend among educational institutions to create structured avenues for student and staff activism while safeguarding campus aesthetics and infrastructure from unauthorized alterations.
