Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has issued an advisory asking students, faculty and staff to refrain from participating in or visiting protest gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar, citing personal safety concerns and the Supreme Court’s directions on public demonstrations.
In the advisory issued on Friday, the university urged all members of its academic community to “act responsibly and prioritise their personal safety.” It also cautioned against irresponsible use of social media, warning that violations of applicable laws could invite legal consequences as well as disciplinary action under the university’s code of conduct.
“Please exercise responsibility on social media. Violations may invite legal consequences under applicable laws as well as disciplinary action under the University’s code of conduct,” the advisory stated.
The university further encouraged students and staff to uphold the values of academic responsibility and responsible citizenship.
Follows Similar Advisories by Other Institutions
JNU’s advisory comes a day after the University of Delhi (DU) issued a similar notice asking students and faculty members to stay away from unauthorised assemblies and demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. DU had warned that participation in unlawful gatherings could affect students’ safety, academic progress and future career prospects.
Other institutions, including IIT Roorkee and IIT Madras, have also issued advisories urging students to avoid protest sites and comply with legal guidelines.
Rahul Gandhi Criticises DU Advisory
Reacting to Delhi University’s advisory, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the university of threatening students for exercising their democratic rights.
Sharing the DU notice on X, Gandhi wrote, “How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights? Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes.”
Protest Continues at Jantar Mantar
The advisories come amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests at Jantar Mantar over alleged examination irregularities and paper leaks. The demonstrations have intensified following clashes between protesters and police earlier this week, prompting heightened security measures and increased scrutiny by authorities.
