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Jamia Millia Islamia University in New Delhi has virtually turned into a police camp amid continuing student protests demanding the restoration of the students’ union, with heavy security deployment, barricades and restrictions around the campus.
The agitation, which began on October 12, entered its 20th day on Friday, with students continuing their sit-in and hunger strike over the university administration’s failure to restore the elected students’ union, which has remained defunct since 2006.
The situation has led to a massive deployment of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel around the university.
Security forces have been stationed at several entrances, while barricades and additional metal grills have been installed to restrict movement.
Police vehicles, detention buses and riot-control equipment have also been seen near the campus.
The Delhi Police imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), restricting unlawful gatherings, meetings and processions in the area. Authorities warned that violations could lead to legal action.
Students have alleged that the heavy security presence has created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
They have also accused the university administration of restricting access to academic facilities and putting pressure on protesting students to leave their hostels.
The university administration earlier announced that classes would continue online until November 8 and that mid-term examinations would also be held online.
The decision has further intensified tensions between the administration and the protesters.
The protesting students are demanding a clear timeline for drafting the students’ union constitution and holding elections, withdrawal of disciplinary actions against demonstrators, and the resignation of the university’s Chief Security Advisor.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police have rejected allegations that the university administration handed over any campus gates or sections to the police, describing the claims as false and baseless.
Police said their personnel were deployed outside the university to maintain law and order.
The continuing standoff has raised concerns over academic activities and students’ right to peaceful protest at one of India’s prominent universities.
