Jamia and JNU Join Delhi University in Urging Students to Avoid Jantar Mantar Protests

Two major central universities in New Delhi—Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Jamia Millia Islamia—issued circulars on Friday, July 24, cautioning students and faculty against joining demonstrations around Jantar Mantar organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

The notifications follow a similar advisory released earlier by Delhi University (DU), expanding administrative restrictions as student-led demonstrations over alleged NEET paper leaks continue near the national capital's primary protest ground.

JNU cites court rulings, warns of disciplinary action

In its public notice, JNU requested members of its academic community to "act responsibly and prioritize their personal safety." Citing Supreme Court directives regulating demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, the administration asked students, faculty, and campus staff to "refrain from participating in or visiting gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar."

JNU further cautioned students to "exercise responsibility on social media," noting that code-of-conduct violations could trigger university disciplinary action alongside applicable legal consequences.

Jamia highlights student aspirations and PM assurances

Jamia Millia Islamia appealed directly to its student body to focus on academic obligations and refrain from actions that could affect their futures. The university noted that many first-year students arrive from economically marginalized backgrounds across India, carrying significant family aspirations.

"Nothing is worth placing at risk a future nurtured through such hard work, dedication and sacrifice," the Jamia statement read. Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public assurance that student interests would be protected and examination irregularities addressed, the administration urged students to remain focused on their studies.

Campus reactions and political backlash

Despite the administrative notices, video footage circulating on Friday showed DU North Campus students holding rallies with banners and placards. Opposition political leaders and student union representatives criticized the notices, alleging that university administrations were attempting to suppress peaceful democratic assembly.

What we can verify

• Advisories issued: JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia issued circulars on July 24, 2026, advising students to stay away from CJP demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. — The Indian Express
• JNU notice details: JNU cited Supreme Court guidelines on Jantar Mantar gatherings and warned of disciplinary and legal consequences for code-of-conduct or social media violations. — The Indian Express
• Jamia notice details: Jamia urged first-year and marginalized students to safeguard their academic careers, referencing PM Modi's assurances regarding exam integrity. — The Indian Express
• DU context: DU South Campus Director Rajni Abbi stated on Thursday that the university sought to prevent students from becoming a "political tool." — The Indian Express

What remains unverified

• Total number of students who received formal warnings or show-cause notices across campuses remains [unverified].
• Extent of attendance drop at Jantar Mantar directly attributable to the advisories is [unverified].