“Demand faster union polls”: Fresh protests in Jamia after poll announcement

Fresh protests erupted at Jamia Millia Islamia on Monday, with several students detained by the Delhi Police, hours after the university announced the resumption of student union elections following a nearly two-decade hiatus.

According to The Hindustan Times, the protesting students are demanding a time-bound election process and the appointment of a chief election officer, saying the university’s announcement does not provide a clear timeline for the polls. The students raised slogans of “Delhi Police, go back” as tensions continued on campus.

Around 100 female students entered the campus through different gates earlier in the day, with some gathering outside Gate No. 7. The protests come amid an ongoing agitation demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU), whose elections have not been held since 2006.

Earlier on Monday, the university announced that student union elections would be held within 15 days of the approval of the students’ union constitution. The administration also revoked suspension orders and show-cause notices issued to some students and promised an inquiry into the conduct of security personnel during the protests.

The agitation began on October 12, when students launched a hunger strike demanding the restoration of the elected students’ union. Despite negotiations with the university administration, protesters have continued their agitation, seeking a clear election schedule and action on other demands, including the resignation of the chief proctor.

The university has shifted classes online, citing security concerns, and advised students to avoid visiting the campus until further notice.