The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) administration has taken a firm stance, promising the strictest possible action against students involved in raising what it termed "objectionable" slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. The university's warning came on Tuesday, January 6, following a protest event held on campus a day earlier.
University's Stern Warning and FIR Lodged
In a post on the social media platform X, the university administration clearly stated its position. It affirmed that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right, the campus will not tolerate any form of unlawful conduct or anti-national activity. The administration revealed that a First Information Report (FIR) has already been filed with the Delhi Police concerning the incident.
The university's statement emphasized, "Universities are centres for innovation and new ideas, and they cannot be permitted to be converted into laboratories of hate." It further clarified that any violence, unlawful behavior, or activities deemed anti-national would be dealt with severely, regardless of circumstances.
Details of the Protest and Disciplinary Measures
The controversy stems from a protest event titled 'A Night of Resistance with Guerrilla Dhaba', organized at the Sabarmati Dhaba on Monday, January 5. The gathering marked the anniversary of the January 5, 2020, violence on campus, where a masked mob attacked students and teachers.
This year's protest coincided with the Supreme Court's decision to deny bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in the 2020 Delhi riots conspiracy case. According to a video from the event, some participants raised slogans critical of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister.
The JNU administration, in a letter to the police, described these slogans as "highly objectionable, provocative and inflammatory," adding they showed contempt for the Supreme Court and disrespect for constitutional norms.
The consequences for identified students will be severe. The university announced disciplinary measures including immediate suspension, expulsion, and permanent debarment from the institution.
Student Response and Ongoing Situation
Among those named as part of the protest is the current Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) president, Aditi Mishra. However, Mishra has contested the administration's claims. She stated that the protest is an annual event and insisted that the slogans were ideological and not personally targeted.
"All of the slogans raised in the protest were ideological and do not attack anyone personally. They were not directed towards anyone," Mishra told PTI. This sets the stage for a potential clash between the university's disciplinary actions and the students' defense of their right to protest and free expression.
The incident has reignited the perennial debate on the limits of free speech within educational institutions in India, balancing constitutional rights with the need to maintain order and respect for national institutions.
