Delhi Police Detain JNU Students as Protest March Against Vice-Chancellor Is Stopped

On February 26, Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) organized a protest march from the campus to the Ministry of Education, demanding the implementation of University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, enactment of the Rohith Vemula Act, increased funding for public institutions, and the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit over alleged casteist remarks. Delhi Police stopped the march at the university gate amid heavy security, leading to clashes with protesters. Several student leaders, including JNUSU president Aditi Mishra, were detained. Police reported injuries among officers caused by stone-pelting, biting, and physical assault by protesters, while students alleged excessive force and rights violations. The university stated that the UGC regulations are under Supreme Court stay and defended the Vice-Chancellor, citing rustication of students for vandalism as the core issue. The situation reflects ongoing tensions following previous protests and allegations of caste discrimination on campus.