The JNU administration has appealed to students and teachers to “discourage obstructive politics and protests” in the campus alleging it is hampering the smooth functioning of the university and “unreasonable” demands are being raised through demonstrations.
The appeal by the varsity comes in wake of protests by various student groups and teachers for the last two weeks over missing student Najeeb Ahmed.
The students union has called a solidarity meeting on the issue this evening where various political leaders including Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and Congress’ Mani Shankar Aiyar will address a gathering.
“A large number of faculty, students, officers and staff have repeatedly approached the JNU administration expressing their discomfort and disagreement with the frequent politicisation and holding of dharnas and public meetings near the administration building and the academic areas,” the appeal issued by Vice Chancellor Jagadesh Kumar said.
“Despite all efforts, pamphlets, posters, demonstrations, dharnas, unlawful confinement and offensive sloganeering have been going on to spread lies and to blame the administration and make unreasonable demands. Attempts are being made to disturb the normal functioning and conduct of academic activities including examinations,” it said.
Najeeb Ahmed (27), a student of School of Biotechnology and a native of Badaun in Uttar Pradesh, went missing on 15 October following an on-campus brawl allegedly with the members of ABVP, BJP’s students’ wing, the night before.
Alleging inaction on part of the administration, Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) has been agitating over Najeeb’s disappearance from the campus.
The protesting students had even confined the Vice Chancellor and other senior officials in the administrative building for over 20 hours.
Following directives from the Union Home Ministry, Delhi Police formed a special investigation team (SIT) to trace the missing student.
“Sit-ins, public functions, dharnas, putting tents, shouting slogan with loud beating of musical instruments have made it difficult for staff and officers working in the administration building to carry on with their official duties.
“These activities are a violation of university rules and even rulings by the highest judicial body of the country. This uncooperative attitude has been obstructing the normal functioning of the university,” it said.
“The Administration appeals to the entire JNU community to unite to trace Najeeb and keep away from unnecessary politicisation. To help JNU continue to focus on academic excellence, please discourage obstructive politics and protests in the campus,” it added.
(With inputs from PTI)
