Jamia Millia Islamia Considers Hostel Closure Amid Protests

Jamia Millia Islamia is considering closing its hostels within the next two days due to escalating tensions over students' demand to restore union elections. The university has already suspended physical classes, libraries, and other campus activities and shifted them online.

The students' agitation and hunger strike demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU) has entered its 17th day. The university alleged widespread vandalism overnight on October 27, claiming protesting students and locals damaged gates and boundary walls.

The administration said the extent of the damage raised serious concerns about the safety of students, faculty members, and non-teaching staff. The university has cancelled cultural programmes planned for its 106th Foundation Day on Thursday, citing security concerns.

The protest continued despite the university's announcement on Monday that it would hold student union elections within 15 days of the union's constitution being approved. The administration also revoked suspension and show-cause notices issued to students during the agitation and ordered an enquiry into the conduct of security personnel.

However, the protesters have maintained that the administration must announce a definite date for the polls and set a timeline for approving the constitution. Four students have been on an indefinite hunger strike over the issue, the students' body said.