NEW DELHI: Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi has introduced stringent rules in its revised Chief Proctor Office (CPO) manual, prohibiting wall posters, dharnas, or protests within 100 meters of academic buildings.
Violation of this rule can result in fines up to Rs 20,000 or expulsion. Previously, protests within 100 meters of administrative blocks were prohibited.
The updated manual aims to curb dissent and follows an incident in October where an "anti-national" slogan was found on a building.
JNU Students' Union has opposed the rules, calling them an attempt to stifle campus culture. The university administration has not responded to requests for comment.
The manual, approved by the Executive Council, grants the Vice-Chancellor or competent authority the power to determine punishable acts, with fines imposed for activities deemed derogatory, anti-national, or disruptive.
Students with repeated punishments may face expulsion, and false allegations can result in rustication. Cross-examination during proctorial inquiries is no longer allowed, and the Vice-Chancellor's decision is considered final in case of disputes.(With agency inputs)
