Campus Closure and Academic Adjustments
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has ordered the closure of its campus until mid-January, effective immediately. Classes and all semester-end examinations will be conducted online.
Timeline of Academic Activities
Online classes will continue until November 24th. Practical, fieldwork, and project viva examinations are scheduled online from November 25th to 30th. Online theory examinations will take place from December 1st to December 24th.
Winter Vacation
A winter vacation period is scheduled from December 25th to January 12th. Classes are expected to resume on January 13th, 2027, the mode of instruction for the next semester remains unspecified.
Protest Context
This decision follows ongoing student protests demanding the formation of a students’ union. The university has agreed to hold elections after a 20-year gap, contingent on the approval of a new union constitution.
Union Constitution Conditions
The university administration has stipulated that elections must be held within 15 days of the constitution’s approval, with the entire election process completed by February 5th. A section of protesting students reject this conditional offer.
Allegations of Vandalism
JMI has alleged that groups of protesting students and local residents vandalized campus gates and walls on October 27th, damaging Gate 4C, CCTV cameras, and the control room. Female faculty members, wardens, and provosts reportedly faced threats during attempts to de-escalate the situation.
Protesters’ Demands
Protesting students are demanding that the university draft and approve the new union constitution by December 20th, announcing the election date within 15 days of approval, and completing the election process by February 5th. They claim the administration’s assurances are lacking a firm timeline.
Current Status
Five students remain on hunger strike on campus. According to police, two students were detained on Wednesday amidst the ongoing protests.
Source: ThePrint. Featured image credit: ThePrint.
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