Tensions Flare at JNU as Student Protests Turn Violent, Multiple Arrests Made

Protests at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) escalated sharply late Thursday and into early Friday after clashes broke out between students and police during a planned march. Authorities confirmed multiple arrests following the unrest, which left several students and police personnel injured.

According to the Delhi Police, at least 14 individuals have been detained in connection with the violence linked to demonstrations organized by the JNU Students’ Union (JNUSU). Among those arrested are former JNUSU president Nitish Kumar, current president Aditi Mishra, vice-president Gopika Babu, and joint secretary Danish Ali.

March to Ministry Sparks Confrontation

The confrontation began when student groups attempted to carry out a “Long March” from the campus to the Ministry of Education. Protesters were demanding the implementation of certain regulations issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC). However, university authorities reportedly denied permission for the march, citing administrative and legal constraints.

Police barricaded key entry and exit points around the campus after students attempted to proceed with the demonstration despite the denial. Officials said tensions escalated when protesters tried to breach barricades near the university’s main gate.

Law enforcement authorities stated that a crowd of approximately 400–500 students gathered around 3:20 pm and allegedly damaged barricades. Police claimed that some protesters threw objects including banners, sticks, and shoes, and physically confronted officers. Around 25 police personnel, including senior officials, were reportedly injured during the clashes.

Legal Action and FIR Registered

An FIR has been filed at the Vasant Kunj North police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges related to obstructing public servants, causing injury, and assault. Authorities maintain that the protest was conducted without official permission and turned violent due to what they described as unlawful actions by demonstrators.

Students Call for Campus Lockdown

Following the arrests, the JNUSU announced a second march to the Vasant Kunj Police Station and declared a “complete lockdown” of the campus in protest against the detentions. The student body reiterated its demands, including the resignation of the vice-chancellor, increased funding for public universities, and the implementation of equity-related academic regulations.

In response, the JNU administration stated that the UGC regulations cited by protesters are currently under a stay order from the Supreme Court of India and therefore cannot be enforced by the university at this stage. The administration also accused sections of the student body of vandalism and attempting to shift attention away from previous incidents of campus unrest.

Meanwhile, the JNU Teachers’ Association expressed support for the students and criticized what it termed excessive force used by police during the operation.

Ongoing Investigation

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with authorities reviewing footage and gathering statements from both police personnel and student representatives. The situation remains tense, with heightened security on campus and continued calls for dialogue from various stakeholders.

The episode marks another chapter in JNU’s long history of student-led activism, raising broader questions about campus governance, academic autonomy, and the limits of protest.

Summary

Violence erupted at Jawaharlal Nehru University after students attempted a march to the Ministry of Education demanding implementation of UGC regulations. Police denied permission and clashes followed, resulting in injuries to both officers and students. Fourteen people, including key JNUSU leaders, have been arrested, and an FIR has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. While the university administration cited a Supreme Court stay on the regulations, student groups have called for further protests and a campus lockdown. Investigations are ongoing.