Jagran Correspondent, New Delhi | Jamia Millia Islamia University continued to witness student-led protests on Monday despite the JMI administration accepting their demands. Fresh clashes broke out between protesting students and paramilitary personnel at the university premises as the students refused to end their agitation for restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU).
In the morning, it was reported that the 20-day hunger strike by students ended following the acceptance of their demand. However, in the afternoon, students resumed their hunger strike, announcing a protest march. As soon as the protest march was announced, a large crowd of students gathered on campus. As the situation deteriorated, the police detained two students.
Women Students Join Protests
Security personnel immediately sprang into action to control the protesting students, who were shouting slogans against the college administration. However, the students continued their protest as a large number of students from the women's hostel also joined the demonstration.
What Went Wrong Even After University Agreed On Student Union Polls
The university ordered that students' union elections be held within 15 days of the approval of the union's constitution. It also revoked suspension and show-cause notices issued to students during the ongoing protest and provided for a committee to inquire into the conduct of security staff during the agitation. Two students, Mohammad Rehan Khan and Abin, who have been on hunger strike, said that the Jamia administration has not fixed a deadline for finalising the student union draft and its acceptance. The agitating students asserted that it was not enough, as the administration has not issued a definite timeline for the polls.
Students Adamant On Announcement Of Poll Dates
Students pointed out loopholes in the order issued by the administration. Rehan said dates for polls should be declared in the order, asserting that the notice is just an attempt to distract students. He alleged that the administration wanted the protesters to accept the notice and end their hunger strike, adding that attempts had also been made to force them to break their fast.
A draft constitution would be prepared by December 20, following which it would be approved and election dates announced within 15 days. According to students, even if the constitution is drafted by December 20, what is the guarantee that the administration will accept the constitution?
Politics Around Jamia Protest
Congress MPs Imran Masood and Imran Pratapgarhi have lent their support to the protesting students. Jamia administration is accused of inciting students against the university. The JMI also filed an FIR against Masood and Pratapgarhi along with others for allegedly trespassing on the campus and inciting unrest amid an ongoing agitation.
(With inputs from Rais/PTI)