Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday criticised Delhi University after it issued an advisory asking students and faculty members to stay away from demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. Gandhi accused the university of attempting to discourage students from exercising their democratic rights and warned that those responsible would eventually be held accountable.
Responding to the advisory on X, Gandhi wrote, “How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights? Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes.”
The controversy erupted after Delhi University advised its students and teaching staff not to participate in gatherings or demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. Citing directions issued by the Supreme Court, the university stated that participation in unlawful assemblies could result in legal consequences while also affecting students’ academic progress and future professional opportunities.
The university further urged students to prioritise their safety and comply with the law, while cautioning them against fake or misleading information circulating on social media that could escalate the situation.
Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh also defended the advisory, saying educational institutions should remain focused on students’ welfare rather than politics. Speaking to the media, he said excessive political activity could adversely affect educational institutions and reiterated that safeguarding students’ future remained the university’s foremost priority.
Earlier this week, the university had welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement to establish fast-track courts for paper leak cases. In its statement, Delhi University described the decision as a step reflecting the government’s commitment towards protecting students’ interests. The university also appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, stating that the future of students should remain the country’s highest priority.
Meanwhile, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) also issued a similar advisory asking members of its academic community to refrain from participating in gatherings around Jantar Mantar. Referring to Supreme Court guidelines, JNU urged students and faculty members to act responsibly, prioritise personal safety and avoid actions that could invite legal or disciplinary proceedings. The university also advised its stakeholders to exercise caution while using social media and uphold the principles of responsible citizenship and academic integrity.
