JNU bans campus protests; students violating rule to face hefty fines, expulsion
PTC News Desk: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has implemented new restrictions that restrict protests and rallies on campus. Students who violate these rules may face consequences ranging from heavy fines to expulsion.
Protests were previously restricted within 100 metres of the administrative blocks, which hold the offices of the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and Proctors, among others, following a High Court decision.
However, protests are prohibited within 100 metres of educational facilities, including classrooms and labs, according to the revised Chief Proctor Office (CPO) manual, which was approved in November 2023. This expands existing restrictions imposed around administrative blocks.
Violations of these rules could result in a Rs 20,000 fine or possible expulsion from campus. Furthermore, any "anti-national" conduct or incitement of intolerance against religion, caste, or community is punishable by a Rs 10,000 penalty, according to the new university manual.
This development comes after the university observed an event in October in which an "anti-national" slogan was scribbled on the School of Languages building wall, and the administration announced the establishment of a committee to look into it.
The JNUSU has slammed the new restrictions, calling them an attempt to "stifle dissent" and limit campus activism. They have demanded that the revised manual be withdrawn immediately.
The university administration, on the other hand, contends that fresh rules are required to uphold academic and administrative order and prevent disruptions.
- With inputs from agencies
