Jamia University Announces Student Union Polls As Two Students Continue Hunger Strike

Jamia Millia Islamia has ordered that students' union elections must take place within 15 days of the approval of the union's constitution. Even though the university issued this new order, two students are still continuing their hunger strike because they have received no assurances on the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Proctor.

Action Taken

Registrar Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi issued the official order on Monday, October 26, 2026. Under this order, the university cancelled the suspension and show-cause notices given to students during the protests. At the same time, the administration asked students to say sorry for any bad remarks made against the university officials. The order also sets up a committee to check the conduct of the security staff during the protest period.

Background

Students at the university have been protesting since October 11 to get their union back. The situation grew very tense on Sunday, October 25, when attempts were made to forcibly remove the students who were protesting. Classes were suspended, water facilities on the campus were cut off, and no entry or exit was allowed. Despite heavy police deployment, students still gathered in large numbers to stage their demonstration.

Context

University student unions serve as official bodies to represent student interests and manage campus activities. Campus protests over administrative actions and union rights often see heightened tensions between student bodies and university authorities. Student unions are a common feature across many Indian universities, providing a platform for democratic participation among young adults.