A fresh controversy has erupted at the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi, leading to a formal police investigation. The Delhi Police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) following the circulation of a viral video that allegedly captured derogatory and inflammatory slogans being raised during an event on the campus.
The Incident and the Viral Video
The incident reportedly took place on January 7, 2026, during an event held at the university. A video clip from this gathering quickly spread across various social media platforms. The footage purportedly shows a section of participants chanting slogans that have been deemed highly objectionable and derogatory by the authorities and the public.
Upon the video gaining traction online, the Delhi Police took cognizance of the matter. The FIR was registered at the Vasant Kunj (North) police station under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). While the exact IPC sections were not detailed in the initial report, such cases typically involve charges related to promoting enmity, statements conducing to public mischief, and criminal intimidation.
Police Action and Investigation
The registration of the FIR marks the beginning of a formal legal process. The Delhi Police has initiated an investigation to identify the individuals involved in the alleged act. Investigators are likely to scrutinize the viral video, gather more evidence from the event, and question witnesses and organizers.
This action underscores the police's stance against any form of speech that could potentially disturb public order or spread hatred. The authorities have emphasized that lawful protests are permissible, but any activity crossing legal boundaries will face strict action.
Context and Recurring Campus Tensions
JNU has a long history of being a hub for vibrant political discourse and student activism. However, this has also led to periodic controversies where slogans and protests have come under legal and political scrutiny. The current incident echoes past conflicts where university events have sparked nationwide debates on freedom of expression, sedition laws, and national security.
The filing of this FIR is expected to reignite discussions on these complex issues. University administrations often walk a tightrope between upholding the constitutional right to free speech and ensuring campus activities comply with the law of the land.
The coming days will be crucial as the police investigation progresses. The outcome could have significant implications for the individuals involved and set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in academic institutions across the country. The university administration is also anticipated to respond internally to the situation.
