Students see ‘familiar playbook’ as DU, colleges endorse govt. action
Delhi University has advised students to avoid protests at Jantar Mantar, citing safety and legal compliance, while students and faculty criticize the administration for aligning with government interests. The tension reflects broader dissatisfaction with the university's response to student concerns.
Why it matters
The conflict highlights the growing friction between academic institutions and student activism regarding government policy and educational reform in India.
With a nationwide protest call on Friday, Delhi University on Thursday evening asked its students to “stay away from Jantar Mantar” and prioritise safety and compliance with the law. The advisory comes amid criticism from students and teachers after the university and some colleges backed the government’s actions.
In a post on X, the university said unlawful assemblies at Jantar Mantar, which are strictly regulated as per Supreme Court directives, may invite legal action, and urged students to avoid the area. “Such activities can also pose serious risks to students’ personal safety and significantly impact their academic progress and professional opportunities,” it added.
Earlier, the university had said “vested interests” were exploiting students’ fears, while some college principals expressed support for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Students and faculty members said these responses reflect a “familiar playbook”.
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