Delhi University warns students against unauthorised protests; Rahul Gandhi criticises advisory
New Delhi: Delhi University has issued an advisory cautioning students against participating in unauthorised demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, citing Supreme Court directives that strictly regulate such gatherings. The university warned that students involved in unlawful assemblies could face legal action.
The advisory, released on Tuesday, states that as per Supreme Court orders, protests at Jantar Mantar—a historic site in central Delhi often used for demonstrations—are subject to specific rules. It urged students to avoid any activity that violates these regulations.
Reacting to the advisory, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the university of threatening students. “How dare you threaten students for peacefully protesting? This is an attack on democratic rights,” he said in a statement.
The Supreme Court has historically imposed restrictions on protests at Jantar Mantar to prevent prolonged disruptions and maintain public order. The area is frequently used for demonstrations, but authorities require prior permission and adherence to time limits.
Delhi University officials clarified that the advisory aims to ensure students are aware of legal boundaries and not to stifle dissent. “We are simply informing students of existing rules to protect them from legal trouble,” a university spokesperson said.
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between student activism and regulatory frameworks in India. While the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally protected, it must be exercised within the limits set by law.
