In a significant move, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has recently implemented a new set of regulations that could have a substantial impact on the student body, including those attending part-time. These rules are applicable universally across the university's student population, irrespective of when they were admitted - whether it was before or after the introduction of these guidelines.

The essence of these regulations is centered around the manner in which students at JNU engage in protests and demonstrations. Specifically, the university has demarcated a 100-meter perimeter around all academic and administrative buildings as a zone where certain forms of protest are now prohibited. This includes holding dharnas (sit-in protests), hunger strikes, group bargaining, or any other similar activities. If students are found engaging in these activities within the specified radius, they face stringent penalties. The repercussions can range from a substantial fine of up to Rs 20,000 to more severe consequences like rustication (temporary suspension) or expulsion from the campus for the duration of two semesters.

These rules have been compiled and detailed in a manual crafted by the Chief Proctor Office. This document, titled “Rules of Discipline and Proper Conduct of Students of Jawaharlal Nehru University”, has been officially sanctioned and approved by the university’s Executive Council. The decision was finalized in a meeting held on November 24, marking a pivotal moment in the university's approach to handling student protests and discipline.

This development at JNU represents a critical shift in the management of student activism and the expression of dissent within the campus. The introduction of these rules indicates a more structured and, perhaps, stringent approach towards regulating student activities, especially those related to protests and collective bargaining.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has recently updated its campus regulations, as detailed in a new manual. These changes, notably, include the stipulation of punishment for "organizing events such as freshers’ welcome parties, farewells, or DJ events" on the campus without obtaining prior permission. In an attempt to maintain an organized campus environment, the university has decided that students who hold such events without official approval could face a fine of Rs 6,000. Additionally, they may be required to contribute to the JNU community through various service activities. This approach aims to instill a sense of responsibility among students while ensuring that campus activities are conducted in an orderly manner.

Another significant aspect of the manual is its prohibition of protests around the residences of any university members. This rule is implemented to safeguard the personal and professional spaces within the campus, ensuring that the academic and living environments are free from disruption. By setting these boundaries, JNU is fostering a respectful and harmonious campus culture.

Addressing the concerns raised by the JNU Students Union, the university authorities have provided clarity on the nature of these new regulations. The Union expressed in a statement on Monday that the "stringent measures outlined in the manual are aimed at stifling the vibrant campus culture that has defined JNU for decades." This statement reflects a concern that the new rules might impede the dynamic and free-spirited environment traditionally associated with the university.

Contrary to these apprehensions, university authorities have clarified that the essence of these rules has been a constant feature for many years. They state that the current changes are not a complete overhaul but rather a "fine-tuning" of the pre-existing regulations. This refinement process is an initiative to ensure that the rules are legally sound and in line with contemporary standards.

Further endorsing this viewpoint, JNU Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit told The Indian Express, "These are the same rules that have been in place since 1969, I have not brought in any change to these rules. The rules are just fine-tuned and made legally sound on the directions of the Delhi High Court." This statement underscores the university's intent to preserve longstanding principles while updating them to be more effective and relevant in today's context.

JNU Vice Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit has recently articulated her stance on the university's approach to student protests and the necessity of updating campus rules. Emphasizing her perspective, she said, "I never punished any student for protesting nor will I ever punish them for that, rather I have saved them from the last regime and I have closed all cases from 2016 to 2022." This statement reflects a commitment to a fair and understanding approach towards student activism, highlighting her efforts to resolve past disciplinary issues.

The Vice Chancellor also addressed the recent fine-tuning of the university's rules, explaining that the adjustments were made to align with the decisions of the Delhi High Court. She stated, "We have only fine-tuned it (the rules) to keep with the Delhi High Court decisions… We have made it legally sound-proof. As the Chief Proctor’s office is a legal body, we just put it in legal language." This indicates a concerted effort to ensure that the university's regulations are not only legally compliant but also clearly articulated for the students and the administration.

Regarding the specific issue of the Rs 6,000 fine for organizing parties on campus without permission, Pandit provided a rationale based on past incidents. She remarked, "There have been drugs and alcohol at freshers parties on campus. There was violence at a birthday party in Narmada hostel 9 months ago… To ensure situations like these don’t occur on campus, we have brought in these rules. Maintaining law and order on campus is my responsibility." This response highlights a proactive measure to prevent the recurrence of undesirable incidents and to uphold the safety and orderliness of the campus environment.

The manual itself acknowledges the need for a thorough review of existing disciplinary rules and regulations. It states, "It was strongly felt to review the existing disciplinary rules and regulations of the Office of Chief Proctor. There are no substantially approved rules and regulations on proper conduct and discipline of students by the statutory body (i.e Executive council) of JNU in vogue…" This admission underscores the necessity of updating and officially sanctioning the rules to ensure they are effective, relevant, and recognized by the university's governing body.

The recent amendments to Jawaharlal Nehru University's (JNU) regulations have sparked a conversation among the university's authorities. Chief Proctor Janardhana Raju succinctly noted, “The decision on this document was taken by the Executive Council of the university.” His brief statement indicates that the changes to the rules were a decision made at the highest administrative level, emphasizing the formal and official nature of this process.

In contrast, Brahma Prakash Singh, an elected member of the Executive Council and an Assistant Professor at the School of Arts and Aesthetics at JNU, raised concerns about the procedure followed in the decision-making process. He pointed out that the matter was not thoroughly discussed at the meeting. Singh highlighted, “The minutes of the meeting are not yet confirmed and approved by the EC members. It is really unfortunate that the JNU administration has circulated the document without approval of minutes. The last date to submit comments and observations on the matter is December 12. This shows that the due process was not followed to bring the notice to the public. EC members are taken for granted,” as reported by The Indian Express.

Singh's statement sheds light on a crucial aspect of administrative processes in educational institutions - the need for thorough discussion and consensus among decision-makers. His remarks suggest that for such significant changes, a more inclusive and transparent approach might have been more appropriate. The concern is not about the content of the new rules but rather the manner in which they were finalized and communicated. The emphasis on the need for proper deliberation and confirmation of meeting minutes before public circulation underscores the importance of procedural integrity in university governance.

The introduction of new regulations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) continues to evoke varied responses, particularly concerning the process of their implementation and potential impact on the campus ethos. Brahma Prakash Singh, an elected member of the Executive Council and an Assistant Professor at JNU, expressed further concerns about the manner in which these changes were discussed. He pointed out, “Even the agenda was not properly discussed in the academic council meeting. It was merely reported without any democratic deliberation. Most unfortunately, the students’ union does not have representation in any of these bodies (a statutory provision), it also curtails their voices and views in the deliberation. We will submit our dissents and would also like to know how the document was made public without confirmation from the EC members.” Singh’s remarks indicate a lack of comprehensive discussion and a need for greater inclusivity in decision-making processes, particularly involving student representation.

The JNU Students Union also voiced its apprehensions regarding the new regulations. In a statement, the Union said, “Such excessive regulations are intended to discourage open discussions, dissent, and intellectual exploration, which are fundamental to the spirit of our university. According to the new manual, protests before any academic building can lead to rustication, eviction from the hostel and a fine of Rs 20,000. Moreover, a student who commits any act that the JNU Admin considers to be of moral turpitude can be fined up to Rs 10,000.” This perspective emphasizes the Union's belief that the new rules could undermine the core values of JNU, which include the encouragement of open discussions and intellectual freedom. The Union's specific concerns relate to the potential consequences of protesting near academic buildings and the broad scope of penalties for actions deemed as moral turpitude by the administration.

The latest regulations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) continue to stir conversations about discipline and the scope of authority. The JNU Students Union highlighted specific concerns, stating, “Moreover, any act that the VC or any ‘competent authority’ considers to be an act of indiscipline can lead to rustication, eviction from the hostel and a fine of Rs 20,000. Wall posters and graffiti, which the JNU Admin considers defacement, will lead to expulsion, rustication, eviction from the hostel and fine of Rs 20,000.” This statement reflects the Union's apprehension about the broad discretionary power given to the Vice Chancellor and other authorities. The concern here is that such sweeping authority could potentially lead to inconsistent or overly harsh disciplinary actions, especially in cases involving expressions like wall posters and graffiti, traditionally viewed by many as forms of student expression and campus culture.

Additionally, the Union expressed worries regarding the clarity of the new manual. They pointed out, “The JNU Chief Proctor manual lacks clarity on several crucial aspects, leaving room for misinterpretation and arbitrary implementation. Such ambiguous rules can lead to unfair and discriminatory practices, jeopardizing the rights of individual students.” This statement underscores the importance of having clear and well-defined rules to prevent potential misuse or arbitrary application. The concern is that ambiguity in the regulations could result in uneven enforcement, impacting the students' rights and the campus environment.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) has been vocal in its opposition to the new manual, calling for its immediate revocation. JNUSU, said asserting that, “Decisions affecting the entire student community should be made collectively, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered. We appeal to the student community to stand united against the attempts of the administration to impose the new dictatorial CPO manual and come together to protect the essence of JNU – a space that fosters critical thinking, inclusivity, and the fearless pursuit of knowledge.” 

Well, it is important to recognize the administration's intent to maintain a disciplined and safe educational environment. The rules are seen as necessary to uphold a standard of conduct that aligns with the university's academic and ethical principles. The administration might view these regulations as crucial for ensuring that the campus remains a space conducive to learning and intellectual growth, free from disruptions and activities that could potentially harm the university's environment and reputation.

In March of this year, JNU had initially issued a notification stating, “students taking part in hunger strikes, dharnas or protests will face a fine of Rs 20,000 and those found engaging in ‘intimidation or insulting behaviour’ could be fined Rs 50,000 and even face rustication.” However, this notification was subsequently withdrawn by the university amid widespread criticism from students across the political spectrum. This withdrawal indicates the university's responsiveness to student feedback and its willingness to reconsider its decisions in the face of significant opposition.