Delhi University Faces Criticism Over Protest Advisory

Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has publicly denounced the University of Delhi (DU) for issuing a recent advisory that urges students and faculty to refrain from participating in protests at Jantar Mantar. Tharoor characterised this advisory as having a "chilling effect" on democratic expression and the freedom of speech. His comments were made through a strongly worded post on X, where he described the advisory as "utterly appalling".

The controversy emerged after Delhi University advised students and faculty to avoid demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, where protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have been ongoing. The protesters are advocating for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, following allegations of irregularities related to the NEET-UG exam, particularly a recent paper leak. The demonstrations have intensified over the past month, notably escalating following a large gathering for a 'Chalo Sansad' march coinciding with the commencement of Parliament's Monsoon Session on July 20.

During that event, clashes between police and protesters resulted in injuries on both sides, leading to the deployment of tear gas and physical force. Tharoor drew parallels between the current climate and the period before India's Emergency in the 1970s, pointing out that during the Jayaprakash Narayan Movement, there were no direct attempts by Delhi University to prevent students from participating in protests.

He emphasised that during critical movements in India’s history, student engagement was supported rather than stifled. In his post, he recalled that members of his student union at St Stephen's College could participate in such movements without facing official reprimand or suppression.

Tharoor cautioned that the university's advisory could create an atmosphere of fear among students, particularly those who might feel pressured to comply with institutional warnings. He stated that if such a prominent educational institution threatens its community for engaging in protests, it infringes on the democratic rights of individuals.

"A university ought to foster critical thinking and the ability to analyse issues independently, rather than suppressing these vital skills," he argued. He further condemned the individuals who issued the advisory, suggesting they were unfit to hold positions of authority at a democratic institution of higher education.

In its statement released on Thursday, Delhi University reiterated its position, advising students and faculty to avoid what it termed "unlawful assemblies or demonstrations" at Jantar Mantar, insisting that these gatherings fall under regulations from the Supreme Court. The advisory concluded with assurances of safety for the university community, while warning that engaging in protests might lead to legal repercussions, personal safety concerns, or detrimental effects on academic and professional trajectories.

The advisory also included cautions about misinformation circulating on social media, urging members of the university to adhere to legal guidelines and prioritise their safety in light of the ongoing protests.