JNU to Take Strict Action Against Students Over Alleged Anti-Modi, Amit Shah Slogans; JNUSU Denies Misconduct

JNUSU hits back, asserting its commitment to peaceful and democratic forms of protest

Digital Desk: The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) administration on Tuesday warned of strict disciplinary action against students accused of raising objectionable slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah during a protest on campus earlier this week. The university stated that those found involved could face immediate suspension, expulsion, and permanent debarment.

An FIR has already been lodged in connection with the incident, and disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against the identified students. In a statement, the administration emphasized that universities are meant to be centres of innovation and dialogue and cannot be allowed to become “laboratories of hate.”

“The Jawaharlal Nehru University administration has vowed the strictest action against students found raising objectionable slogans against the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Hon’ble Home Minister. An FIR has already been lodged in the matter,” the university said. “Students involved will face disciplinary measures including immediate suspension, expulsion, and permanent debarment from the university.”

The JNU Students’ Union (JNUSU), however, hit back, asserting its commitment to peaceful and democratic forms of protest. The union claimed that a purported video circulating online misrepresented the event, diverting attention from the core issues and defaming the university.

“The JNUSU organized a vigil on 5^th January  to commemorate the victims of the 2020 campus violence and highlight ongoing injustices at Sabarmati Hostel, the primary target of the 2020 attacks,” the union said. It further alleged that some media coverage had “mischaracterised” the vigil and accused the Delhi Police of failing to deliver justice to the victims of the earlier attacks. The union described the reporting as an organised attempt to defame JNU and intensify persecution of students.

The controversy underscores the tension on university campuses over freedom of expression, protest, and administrative authority, highlighting the delicate balance institutions must maintain between order and democratic engagement.