Jamia Millia Islamia Protests: Congress MP Detained, Classes Online
Classes at Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) in Delhi have been temporarily moved online following ongoing protests by students demanding the holding of student union elections. During the protests on Saturday, October 24th, 2026, a Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Imran Masood, was detained by police. The situation has highlighted a complex set of issues surrounding student governance and freedom of expression at the university.
Student Union Elections and the Protest
The core demand of the student protestors is the resumption of student union elections, which have been suspended for a considerable period. The JMI administration has cited security concerns and logistical challenges as reasons for postponing the elections. Students claim this indefinite postponement is a violation of their democratic rights and a denial of their ability to choose their representatives. The protests began early Saturday morning and involved a significant number of students, faculty, and staff.
MP Imran Masood’s Arrest and Allegations
According to reports, Mr. Masood was detained while participating in the demonstration. The Samajwadi Party MP, Shafique Sayyad, who is present at the protest site, alleged that police manhandled Mr. Masood. While police officials have not released an official statement confirming the incident or the exact circumstances surrounding Mr. Masood’s detention, the SP MP’s account suggests a confrontation occurred. The details of the arrest and the charges remain unconfirmed at this time. Official statements from the Delhi Police regarding the incident are currently unavailable.
Clashes and Security Measures
Further reports indicate clashes between students and security guards at the JMI campus. These clashes resulted in minor injuries to some students and security personnel. To ensure the safety of students and staff, the university administration has decided to shift classes online for the remainder of the day and potentially for the next few days. This decision was communicated to students and faculty via official channels.
University Response and Justification
A statement released by JMI earlier today stated that the decision to move classes online was taken “primarily to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff.” The university administration emphasized its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and conducive learning environment. They reiterated their ongoing review of the situation and their willingness to engage in dialogue with student representatives to find a resolution regarding the student union elections. The university’s website, https://www.jmi.edu.in/, provides information on the university’s policies and administration, though it currently offers limited specific details about the protests.
Context: Previous Protests and Concerns
This latest round of protests builds upon previous concerns raised by students regarding the postponement of elections and broader issues of student representation within the university. The situation is further complicated by reports of graffiti on university walls, including slogans related to “Free Kashmir” and “Free Sharjeel Imam.” The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has condemned the graffiti, claiming it promotes divisive ideologies. Details surrounding these incidents and the investigation into the graffiti are still emerging.
Moving Forward
The situation at Jamia Millia Islamia remains fluid. The university administration is reportedly seeking legal counsel to address the protests and the related security concerns. The demand for student union elections continues, and the possibility of further demonstrations cannot be ruled out. Updates regarding the arrest of Mr. Masood, the status of online classes, and the resolution of the underlying issues will be closely monitored. Information regarding the ongoing situation can be found through official channels, including the JMI website and reports from established news organizations.
- Official JMI Website: https://www.jmi.edu.in/
- NDTV Report (Initial): https://www.ndtv.com/nation/jamia-millia-islamia-students-guards-clash-during-protest-classes-moved-online-1853951
- The Times of India Report: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/jamia-protest-congress-mp-imran-masood-detained-sp-mp-alleges-manhandling-by-police/articleshow/86299371.cms
Based on reporting by NDTV. Read the original report.
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