In a strong response to a controversial campus incident, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has announced it will take severe disciplinary measures, including immediate suspension and permanent expulsion, against students found guilty of raising objectionable slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
University Condemns Late-Night Campus Event
The university administration issued a stern statement on Monday, January 6, 2026, condemning the reported slogans raised during a late-night gathering on campus the previous night. The event, which has sparked a major controversy, was organized by students associated with the JNU Students' Union (JNUSU).
The university has already taken the step of seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) with the Vasant Kunj (North) Police in connection with the incident. Official sources indicated that an internal inquiry is currently in its preliminary stages, with more details expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
What Transpired at the JNU Gathering?
According to a letter from the university's Security Department to the police, the gathering was organized under the title "A Night of Resistance with Guerrilla Dhaba" to observe the sixth anniversary of the 2020 Delhi violence. Approximately 30-35 students, including four JNUSU office-bearers, had assembled for the event around 10 pm on January 5.
The university's letter states that while the gathering initially seemed focused on commemorating the anniversary, its nature changed significantly following the Supreme Court's decision to reject the bail pleas of Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Northeast Delhi riots case. The court cited the "hierarchy of participation" in its ruling. It was after this development that the controversial slogans were allegedly raised.
JNU's Official Stance and Promised Action
Taking to its official social media handle, JNU administration clarified its position. "Universities are centres for innovation and new ideas, and they cannot be permitted to be converted into laboratories of hate," the university stated. While acknowledging freedom of speech as a fundamental right, the administration drew a clear line.
The official post further emphasized, "But any form of violence, unlawful conduct or anti-national activity will not be tolerated under any circumstances." The university explicitly warned that students involved would face disciplinary measures including immediate suspension, expulsion, and permanent debarment from the institution.
The administration's firm stance underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards activities it deems as crossing the line from free expression into what it categorizes as hateful or anti-national conduct on campus premises.
