JNU PhD Admissions Face Allegations of Reservation Shortfalls

The Students' Federation of India (SFI) has alleged that Jawaharlal Nehru University's PhD admissions for 2026-27 have discrepancies in reservation norms for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and persons with benchmark disabilities.

SFI claims that the university's admission prospectus did not provide the prescribed share of seats for these categories. The organisation alleged that the university advertised 711 regular seats, but failed to earmark the required number of seats for SC, ST, and PwBD candidates.

The National Commissions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes have taken cognisance of SFI's complaint. The NCSC issued a notice to the JNU registrar on October 8, seeking details and action taken on the complaint.

SFI demands that the university correct the alleged reservation shortfalls in the ongoing admission process. The organisation has also sought a special drive to fill backlog seats if the university proceeds with viva-voce examinations.