CampusProtest – Heavy Security Deployed as JNU March Ends in Detentions
CampusProtest – Jawaharlal Nehru University witnessed heightened tension on Thursday after a planned student march led to the deployment of the Rapid Action Force outside the campus. What began as a call for a peaceful demonstration soon transformed the university’s main gates into a tightly controlled security zone, with barricades and police personnel stationed across key entry and exit points.
Security Presence Ahead of Student March
The heavy deployment came hours before a “long march” announced by the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU). The protest was organized in response to alleged caste-related remarks made by Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit on February 16. Student groups across political lines had expressed strong objections to the comments, describing them as discriminatory.
While Delhi Police typically handle campus-related law and order matters, authorities this time called in the Rapid Action Force, a paramilitary unit trained for crowd control. The move was seen by many observers as a sign that officials anticipated large-scale mobilization. Barricades were placed at strategic locations, restricting movement at the main gates and surrounding roads.
Ongoing Demands Over Anti-Discrimination Measures
The demonstration followed several days of protests within the campus. Student organizations have been demanding the implementation of University Grants Commission regulations aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions. They have also called for the enactment of the proposed Rohith Vemula Act, legislation that seeks to strengthen safeguards for students from marginalized communities.
Leaders of the student union had described Thursday’s march as the largest expression of dissent so far. They maintained that their protest was centered on social justice and institutional accountability.
March Stopped at University Gates
By afternoon, groups of students gathered at the Sabarmati T-point inside the campus. Holding placards and raising slogans, they began moving toward the main gate in what organizers described as a peaceful procession.
As the crowd approached the exit, security personnel blocked their path. Witnesses said police and RAF members formed a human barricade and prevented the students from stepping outside the campus. Some students were pushed back toward waiting buses, and several were taken into custody during the standoff.
According to official figures, 51 students were detained during the operation. Visuals from the scene showed security forces escorting students away as slogans continued to echo across the campus entrance.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
In a statement issued later in the day, Delhi Police said that between 400 and 500 students attempted to march out of the university despite being asked to confine their protest within campus limits. Officials alleged that barricades were damaged during the confrontation.
An FIR was registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Police authorities defended their response, stating that their actions were necessary to maintain public order and prevent escalation.
Student representatives, however, disputed the claim of damage and maintained that the march was peaceful. They accused the administration of suppressing dissent and argued that the heavy security presence created unnecessary tension.
Administration’s Position
University officials have not indicated any change in their stance regarding the vice chancellor. The administration’s decision to seek paramilitary support instead of relying solely on the local police has drawn criticism from sections of the academic community, who argue that campus issues should be resolved through dialogue.
The events at Jawaharlal Nehru University reflect broader debates within higher education about discrimination, institutional responsibility, and the right to protest. As legal proceedings move forward and discussions continue, the situation remains under close watch by students, faculty, and policymakers alike.