JNU Protest Turns Violent, Police Injured
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Feb 26, 2026
- 526
A protest by the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) in New Delhi turned violent after clashes broke out between students and the Delhi Police on Thursday.
What Happened?
Around 400–500 students gathered on campus to demand the implementation of new UGC regulations. The march was intended to proceed from JNU to the Ministry of Education. However, police stopped the rally at the main gate, citing restrictions on protests outside the campus.
According to police, when protesters attempted to break barricades and move forward around 3:20 p.m., the situation escalated. Officers alleged that some students threw stones, banners, sticks, and shoes, and even bit police personnel during the scuffle. Several officers reportedly sustained injuries to their hands, ears, and necks.
Police detained multiple students, including JNUSU President Aditi Mishra and former President Nitish Kumar.
Students’ Allegations
Protesters claimed that excessive force was used against them. They alleged that several students were injured and that some detainees were taken to undisclosed locations.
The Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Association (JNUTA) condemned the police action, alleging that women students were among those injured. The association demanded the immediate release of all detained students and described the action as an attempt to curb democratic protest.
University’s Stand
The university administration stated that the demand to implement the regulations violates a stay order issued by the Supreme Court of India. It clarified that the Vice Chancellor and Registrar do not have the authority to override the court’s directive.
In a social media post, JNU said it is a public institution accountable to the government, Parliament, and taxpayers. The administration also criticized what it described as false allegations against its Vice Chancellor, calling them a distraction from the issue of violence and vandalism of public property.
Background: What Is the Dispute A out ?
The Protest jump in centers around the UGC’s ‘Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026.’ The proposed rules aim to prevent caste-based discrimination against SC, ST, and OBC students by mandating special committees, helplines, and monitoring mechanisms in universities.
Supporters argue the regulations promote fairness and accountability. However, some upper-caste students claim the broadened definition of caste-based discrimination could create administrative complications and unfair targeting.
The situation remains tense, with conflicting claims from students, police, and university authorities.