No 'Free Kashmir' Slogans at Jamia: MP Imran Masood
Congress MP Imran Masood claims no anti-India slogans were raised during Jamia Millia Islamia protests and calls for the restoration of the student union.
Congress MP Imran Masood has categorically denied that any slogans calling for a "free Kashmir" were raised during the ongoing student protests at Jamia Millia Islamia. The MP made these claims after visiting the campus to interact with the protesting students, a visit that ultimately led to his detention by the Delhi Police.
Denial of Anti-India Slogans
Speaking to ANI, Masood emphasized that not a single slogan demanding the secession of Kashmir was heard during the demonstrations. He asserted that he personally stood before the crowd to strongly condemn any such sentiments, reiterating that Kashmir is and will always remain an integral part of India.
Addressing the presence of controversial posters on campus related to Jammu and Kashmir, Masood suggested that these were a deliberate attempt to sabotage the students' cause. He claimed that the individuals responsible for the posters had no connection to the actual student protest and were merely trying to undermine the movement.
"The police should take strict action against those responsible for putting up such posters. Kashmir is an integral part of India and will always remain so," Masood stated.
Demands for Student Rights
Beyond the controversy over slogans, the Congress MP voiced his support for the students' grievances, describing their concerns as legitimate. He questioned the authorities on why the student union has not been restored, arguing that students are the future of the nation and that attempts to "crush" them are detrimental to the country.
University Response and High-Level Committee
The tension at Jamia Millia Islamia has escalated following a hunger strike and various protests where students have been demanding action on several grievances. In an effort to resolve the deadlock and restore normalcy, the university administration has taken formal steps to engage with the protesters.
On October 18, following a high-level meeting, the university constituted a seven-member committee. This panel was formed after discussions involving senior officials, including:
- Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif
- Registrar Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi
- Controller of Examinations Prof. Ahteshamul Haque
- Deans of faculties and the Dean of Students’ Welfare
- The Dean of Academic Affairs, the Chief Proctor, and hostel provosts
The university stated that this committee is tasked with engaging directly with the protesting students, examining their specific demands, and recommending the necessary measures to bring peace and stability back to the campus.