Students at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) are continuing their protest, demanding the restoration of the university's student union and the announcement of election dates. This comes after the university issued an order stating that elections would be held within 15 days of the union's constitution approval. However, students say this is insufficient as no definite timeline for the polls has been provided.
- Students demand revival of student union elections, not held since 2006.
- University orders elections within 15 days of constitution approval.
- Students refuse to end protest without a clear election timeline.
- Congress party supports students and criticizes university's approach.
- Security concerns and clashes reported during ongoing protests.
What are the students demanding at Jamia Millia Islamia?
The protesting students want the university to restore the student union and announce a clear schedule for elections. The student union elections have not been held since 2006, and the students seek political empowerment through this democratic platform. They also demand the withdrawal of disciplinary actions against protesters and a transparent dialogue with the administration.
How has the university responded to the protests?
The university issued an order to hold student union elections within 15 days after the union's constitution is approved. It also revoked suspensions and show-cause notices issued to students during the protests. Additionally, a committee was formed to investigate the conduct of security staff during the protest period. The university required the protesting students to issue a public apology for any defamatory statements or social media posts against the administration.
Why are students refusing to end their protest?
Students argue that the university's order lacks a definite timeline for approving the union's constitution, which delays the election process. They believe that without a clear deadline, the promise to hold elections is not sufficient. Some students have also been on a hunger strike to emphasize their demands.
What role has the Congress party played in this situation?
The Congress party has expressed solidarity with the protesting students. Congress general secretary K C Venugopal accused the university authorities of taking instructions from the central government to defame and distract the protesters. The party has urged the administration to meet the students' demands and criticized the heavy-handed approach that has brought the college to a standstill.
What incidents have occurred during the protests?
There have been scuffles between students and paramilitary personnel as security was increased on campus. Police prevented students from entering the campus after classes were shifted online due to safety concerns. An FIR was filed against two Congress MPs and others for alleged trespassing and inciting unrest on campus. The complaint mentioned unauthorized entry through breaking locks and scaling walls.
Who supports the students besides the Congress party?
At a press conference organized by the Jamia Collective, alumni, members of the university's founding families, artists, lawyers, and student representatives expressed solidarity with the protesters. Representatives from student organizations such as NSUI, AISF, SFI, AIDSO, AISA, and DISHA highlighted the need for meaningful dialogue and restoration of democratic spaces on campus.
What are the concerns regarding campus security?
Student representatives questioned the role of the university's security adviser, alleging that the position is used to monitor protesters. They also raised concerns about the deployment of security personnel during the protests, suggesting it may intimidate students and hinder peaceful demonstrations.
What are the next steps expected in resolving the protest?
The university administration is expected to engage in transparent discussions with the students and take concrete steps toward holding the elections. The committee investigating security staff conduct will report its findings. The students continue to demand a clear election timeline and restoration of their representative platform.
