'Those Involved are Hooligans': Pralhad Joshi Slams Jamia Violence
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi calls those involved in Jamia Millia Islamia violence 'hooligans' as protests over student union elections escalate.
Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi has strongly condemned the recent eruption of violence at Jamia Millia Islamia, labeling the perpetrators as "hooligans" and promising that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the unrest. The Jamia protest row has escalated following reports of vandalism and stone-pelting on the university campus.
Minister Slams 'Hooliganism' on Campus
Speaking to ANI, Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed his outrage over the events that unfolded on Tuesday night. He asserted that the individuals involved in the violence were not students, but rather outsiders or disruptive elements intent on causing chaos.
"Regarding what happened last night—those involved are certainly not students; this is the work of some hooligans. Action will be taken against them," Joshi stated, adding that such "thuggery" would not be tolerated within an educational institution.
The Root of the Conflict: Student Union Elections
The unrest is centered around a long-standing grievance regarding the restoration of the students' union. Minister Joshi pointed out that the lack of student union elections is a persistent issue that dates back to 2006, describing the prolonged absence of elections as "completely unacceptable."
Government's Step Toward Resolution
To address the grievances of the students and find a way forward, the Union Minister revealed that a high-level, seven-member committee has been established. This committee consists of senior professors and deans who are tasked with:
- Examining the core concerns raised by the students.
- Reviewing cases where disciplinary action was taken against specific individuals.
- Ensuring that any unfair actions are resolved appropriately.
Chaos on Campus and Administration's Stance
The Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) administration reported a night of turmoil, with official statements highlighting incidents of stone-pelting and significant damage to university infrastructure. In response, the university administration has issued a final warning to students occupying the Ghalib Lawn and the Gulistan-e-Ghalib Building in the North Campus, demanding they vacate the premises or face legal and disciplinary consequences.
The Administration's Offer
In an attempt to quell the unrest, the university administration announced several measures:
- Students' union elections will be conducted 15 days after the union constitution is approved.
- Suspensions and show-cause notices issued during the protest period have been revoked.
- A dedicated committee will be formed to investigate the conduct of the security staff.
Students Reject Offer, Continue Hunger Strike
Despite these gestures, the protesting students have rejected the administration's notice. Their primary contention is that the university has failed to provide a concrete, definite timeline for the restoration of the union and the scheduling of elections. Consequently, students currently on a hunger strike have vowed to continue their agitation until their demands are fully met.