JNU cancels auditorium for Umar Khalid book discussion, students' union says event will go ahead

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) said on Sunday that a book discussion on "Fractured Communities: Adivasi Histories and the Politics of Power," authored by former JNU student Umar Khalid, will go ahead as scheduled on Monday despite the university cancelling the booking for its original venue.

The discussion, organised to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, was initially scheduled for 3 p.m. on August 10 at the auditorium of the School of Social Sciences-I (SSS-I). The JNUSU general secretary said the event was still on, but the venue had been cancelled. "The programme will take place at another venue," he said, adding that no specific reason was given for the cancellation.

The union said the alternate venue would be announced separately. It is expected to be communicated through official channels later on Sunday or on the day of the event.

The book explores the histories of Adivasi communities and the politics of power that have shaped their marginalisation. It looks at land rights, cultural identity, and the impact of state policies on indigenous peoples. These issues have gained particular relevance in recent years as conflicts over land and forests continue to affect Adivasi populations in various states.

The discussion aims to bring together scholarly and activist perspectives on these issues. The panel of speakers includes Professors Prabhu Mahapatra and Uma Chakravarti, writer and journalist Shuddhabrata Sengupta, social activist Harsh Mander, and Banojyotsna Lahiri. Their presence is expected to generate a wide-ranging conversation on the themes raised in the book.

According to the United Nations, there are an estimated 476 million indigenous peoples in the world, living in 90 countries. They make up less than 6 per cent of the global population but account for at least 15 per cent of the poorest. The JNUSU said the event seeks to draw attention to the specific conditions of Adivasi communities in India, who continue to face displacement and marginalisation.

Mr. Khalid, an activist and former student leader at JNU, has been in custody since September 2020. He is charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in connection with the northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case. His trial has not yet begun.

The February 2020 riots in northeast Delhi occurred during protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the proposed National Register of Citizens. Official figures state that 53 people were killed and more than 700 were injured in the violence. The violence broke out amid clashes between supporters and opponents of the citizenship law. A large number of cases related to the riots are still pending in courts.

The cancellation of the original venue at short notice has drawn attention, though the university administration has not publicly explained its decision. The JNUSU has said the change will not affect the programme, and it will make arrangements at an alternate location. The union also said it is in the process of finalising the new space and will share the details as soon as they are confirmed.

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, observed annually on August 9, was established by the United Nations to promote and protect the rights of indigenous populations worldwide. The JNUSU said it had chosen this occasion to host the discussion in order to highlight contemporary issues affecting Adivasi communities in India.

Further details about the new venue and any change in schedule are expected to be announced by the students' union. The book discussion is open to students, faculty, and the general public, and the union has urged interested persons to watch for updates.