Background of the Protest
On the 18th day of an indefinite hunger strike, Ebin Basil, a third-year law student at Jamia Millia Islamia, remains resolute in his demand for the restoration of the university’s students’ union, which has been suspended for 20 years. The university, located on the southeastern edge of New Delhi, was established in 1920 and granted federal university status in 1988.
Key Details of the Protest
The protest began with night vigils calling for student union elections. On October 16th, the university suspended Basil for a year and banned two other hunger strikers. By October 17th, approximately 200 students returned to the grounds, continuing their demonstrations.
University Response and Restrictions
On October 24th, university gates were barricaded, classes moved online, and students in residence were pressured to leave. Armed police and paramilitary forces were stationed at the gate, and a ban on gatherings of more than four people was imposed. The university has announced elections will be held within 15 days, contingent on the approval of a draft union constitution according to the University Grants Commission guidelines, with a deadline of December 20. However, the students reject this timeline as “too slow.”
Student Concerns
Students are demanding a union to address issues such as conditions in halls of residence, canteens, fee increases, and restrictions on participation in antigovernment protests. M K Nausheen Farook, a second-year master’s student, alleges that women residents are being pressured to leave after classes moved online.
Historical Context
Jamia’s relationship with student democracy has a complex history. Elections were held from 1981 until discontinued in 1997 amid campus unrest, and resumed in 2005 before being dissolved the following year due to alleged attacks on the vice-chancellor. Since then, several attempts to revive the union have been made.
Health Concerns
Ebin Basil has lost 7kg and experiences low sodium and glucose levels. Several other hunger strikers have withdrawn due to health concerns.
Related Developments
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), located approximately 120km away in Uttar Pradesh, announced student union elections on November 5, eight years after the last elections. Professor Apoorvanand notes that Jamia and AMU occupy a distinct position due to their Muslim minority character and the government’s reluctance to encourage independent thinking among Muslim students.
Current Situation
Classes and exams have been moved online, and the university is closed until January 13th. Students in university accommodation are being asked to vacate their rooms.
Source: Al Jazeera. Featured image credit: Al Jazeera.
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