14 arrested in JNU protest, students demand VC’s resignation

Fourteen students were arrested in connection with a protest at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Thursday evening, police said. Among those detained were JNUSU president Aditi Mishra , vice president Gopika Babu, former president Nitish Kumar, and joint secretary Danish Ali.

The arrests came after JNUSU members attempted to march from Sabarmati T-Point on campus towards the Education Ministry, protesting Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit’s remarks on a podcast regarding UGC norms, the rustication of JNUSU office-bearers, and the proposed Rohith Act. Police blocked the protesters at the heavily barricaded university gates, leading to a scuffle.

Delhi Police said a total of 51 students were detained during the confrontation, alleging that protesters physically assaulted personnel, causing injuries. An FIR has been filed under sections 132/3(5) (assault or criminal force), 221 (obstructing public servant), and 121(1) (voluntarily causing hurt) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Vasant Kunj North Police Station.

The JNUSU described the police action as excessive, claiming that 13 students, including three office-bearers, were detained, several were injured, and a portrait of B. R. Ambedkar was damaged . The students have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all detained, resignation of the Vice-Chancellor, withdrawal of FIRs and proctorial actions, and action against police personnel involved in the incident.

Earlier, the JNU Teachers Association (JNUTA) had condemned the police action, calling for restraint and a resolution through dialogue. The university remains tense as protests continue and students call for a complete strike in response to Thursday evening’s events.