On February 13, 2025, tensions escalated at Jamia Millia Islamia University in New Delhi as over 10 students were detained following protests against disciplinary actions taken by the administration. The unrest began on February 10, when a group of students initiated a demonstration within the academic block, expressing dissent over the university’s punitive measures against two PhD scholars.
Background of the Protest
The administration had issued show-cause notices to the two PhD students for allegedly organizing the “Jamia Resistance Day” event in December 2024, which commemorated the 2019 anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests. In response, students condemned what they perceived as a crackdown on student activism and gathered to voice their dissent.
Administrative Response and Allegations
According to the university administration, the protesting students disrupted classes, prevented access to the central library, and vandalized university property, including the central canteen. They also accused the protesters of carrying objectionable contraband items. In light of these actions, the administration, with support from the Proctorial team, evicted the students from the campus and sought police intervention to maintain law and order.
Police Involvement
Following the administration’s request, Delhi Police detained over 10 students around 4 am on February 13. A police source stated, “We removed over 10 students at around 4 am after receiving a request from the university administration. Further, we have deployed heavy police security outside the campus to maintain law and order.”
Student Demands and Ongoing Tensions
Student leader Sonakshi outlined the protesters’ key demands:
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Revocation of the show-cause notices issued to the two PhD students.
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Repeal of the 2022 Office Memorandum that restricts protests on campus.
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Scrapping of the ₹50,000 fine for graffiti and posters.
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Assurance of no future disciplinary action against students for participating in protests.
The disciplinary committee is scheduled to meet on February 25 to review the involvement of the two PhD students in organizing the December 2024 “Jamia Resistance Day” event. As tensions persist, the university remains under heightened security to prevent further disruptions.
The situation at Jamia Millia Islamia underscores the ongoing challenges between university administrations and student bodies regarding the balance between maintaining order and upholding the right to protest.
