JNU cancels auditorium booking for discussion on Umar Khalid’s book: Students’ Union
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) cancelled the original venue for a book discussion featuring activist Umar Khalid, who is currently imprisoned. The students' union plans to hold the event at an alternate location despite the administrative hurdle.
Why it matters
The event highlights ongoing tensions regarding academic freedom, student activism, and the legal status of political figures in Indian universities.
A book discussion on "Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power," authored by Umar Khalid, scheduled for Monday (August 10, 2026) at Jawaharlal Nehru University, has been shifted from its originally designated venue, the students' union said on Sunday (August 9, 2026).
"The discussion on the book authored by former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student Mr. Khalid is still on. It was supposed to take place in the auditorium of the School of Social Sciences, but the venue has now been cancelled. The programme will take place at another venue," the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) general secretary said.
He said no particular reason was given for cancelling the original venue.
The JNUSU said the alternate venue for the discussion would be announced separately.
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