Putting up wall posters and staging dharnas within 100 metres of the academic buildings at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) can lead to a fine of up to Rs 20,000 or expulsion, according to a new manual.
The academic buildings of different schools house the offices of chairpersons, deans, and other important office-bearers, apart from classrooms and labs.
Earlier, protests within 100 metres of the administrative blocks, which house the offices of the Vice-Chancellor, registrar, and proctors, among others, were prohibited as per a High Court order.
However, according to the revised Chief Proctor Office (CPO) manual, the university has now barred protests within 100 metres of academic buildings as well as where classes are conducted.
This development comes after the JNU in October witnessed an incident where an “anti-national” slogan was scribbled on the School of Languages building wall, and the administration announced to set up a committee to look into the repeated nature of such incidents on the campus.
The JNU Students’ Union (JNUSU) has opposed the new rules, saying that they are an attempt to stifle dissent on campus and demanding its withdrawal.
“The stringent measures outlined in the manual are aimed at stifling the vibrant campus culture that has defined JNU for decades. The JNUSU demands that the university administration immediately revoke the new manual of the office of the Chief Proctor,” the students’ union said.
