Delhi Police have registered a second first information report (FIR) in connection with incidents at Jamia Millia Islamia, following a complaint by the university administration over alleged vandalism on its campus, police action that comes amid an ongoing student agitation over the restoration of student union elections.
The FIR was registered at Jamia Nagar police station and names unidentified persons, according to the information provided. Further details about the specific offences invoked in the latest case were not immediately available.
The case follows allegations by the university that groups of masked people damaged campus infrastructure late on Tuesday, including gates, boundary walls and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. The administration also alleged that a security control room was vandalised and stones were thrown on the premises. These allegations have not been independently verified.
The university had earlier said that Gate 4C was brought down during the incidents and that iron rods, hammers and other tools appeared to have been used to damage infrastructure. It expressed concern about the safety of students, faculty members and other staff.
The latest FIR is separate from a case registered on October 25 following a complaint by university Registrar Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi. That complaint alleged unauthorised entry into the campus, damage to university property, wall defacement and disruption of academic activities during the ongoing agitation. It also referred to visits by opposition politicians to the university.
The protests at Jamia began on October 12, with students demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union and the resumption of elections, which have not been held since 2006. Protesters have also sought action on disciplinary measures imposed during the agitation and raised concerns about the administration’s handling of their demands.
The university has said it is examining the students’ union constitution, relevant court orders and recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee, which provides guidelines for student elections at educational institutions. The administration has proposed holding elections within 15 days of approval of the constitution, but some protesters have continued to demand a firm timeline.
Amid the escalating tensions, Jamia has moved classes online and revised its examination schedule, citing concerns about campus security and the prevailing situation. The administration has also announced an inquiry into the conduct of security personnel and withdrawn suspension orders and show-cause notices issued to students during the agitation.
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