Protests at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) intensified on Thursday and continued into early Friday, with police confirming several arrests after clashes broke out during a student march. The Delhi Police said 14 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence linked to the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) protests. Those arrested include former JNUSU president Nitish Kumar, current president Aditi Mishra, vice-president Gopika Babu, and joint secretary Danish Ali, according to reports by ANI.
What Led to the Clashes?
Police placed barricades around the campus after students tried to take out a “Long March” to the Ministry of Education. The students were demanding the implementation of regulations issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Authorities said the university administration had denied permission for the march. When students attempted to move off campus, the situation turned violent.
Police claimed that around 400–500 students gathered near the main gate at about 3:20 pm and damaged barricades. Officers alleged that protesters threw banners, sticks, and shoes, and even physically assaulted police personnel. Around 25 police officers, including senior officials, were injured, according to a report by Press Trust of India.
Students Accuse Police of Excessive Force
On the other hand, students accused the police of using excessive force. The JNUSU claimed that more than 50 students were detained, and some were taken to unknown locations without medical help. The union also alleged that a portrait of B. R. Ambedkar was snatched during the police action.
FIR Registered, Second March Announced
An FIR has been filed at the Vasant Kunj North police station under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to obstructing public servants, causing injury, and assault. Police said the protest was held without permission and turned violent due to unlawful actions by protesters.
Later, JNUSU called for another march to the Vasant Kunj Police Station and announced a “complete lockdown” of the campus to protest the detentions. The union repeated its key demands, including the vice-chancellor’s resignation, more funding for public universities, and implementation of equity-related regulations.
Students Produced in Court
All 14 arrested students were produced before the Patiala House Court. During the hearing, Delhi Police requested the court to send the accused to judicial custody, saying it was necessary for further investigation. The defence lawyer argued that the students were ready to cooperate with the probe and were willing to submit a written undertaking.
A woman student also told the court that 4–5 men in plain clothes pulled her out of the crowd forcefully, which caused a serious injury to her hand and led to blood clots.
Delhi Police informed the court that the protest was not peaceful, protesters were involved in violence, police personnel were attacked, and four separate FIRs had already been registered in connection with similar protests earlier.
Court Grants Bail
After hearing all arguments, the Patiala House Court granted bail to all 14 students and ordered their release on a personal bond of Rs 25,000 each.
