Delhi University Bans Public Gatherings and Protests for One Month
Delhi University has imposed a month-long prohibition on public meetings, processions, demonstrations, and all forms of protest activity within its campus. The administration cited concerns over traffic disruption, potential security threats, and the possibility of public unrest as the primary reasons behind this decision.
Official Order Issued by Proctor’s Office
The directive, dated February 17, was released by the university’s Proctor Office, which stated that it had received intelligence suggesting that “uncontrolled public assemblies” could escalate and adversely affect the law-and-order situation on campus. The order further referenced a prior instruction from the Assistant Commissioner of Police for Civil Lines, which had already restricted public gatherings, the carrying of torches or similar items, slogan-chanting, and speeches that could disturb public peace or impede vehicular movement.
Restrictions on Gatherings of Five or More
Under the newly issued order, any assembly of five or more individuals is strictly prohibited. This includes:
- Organizing or participating in public meetings
- Chanting slogans or delivering speeches
- Carrying hazardous materials such as torches, beacons, or flashlights
- Engaging in any form of protest or demonstration
The administration has clarified that the ban takes effect immediately and will remain in force for one month, unless revoked earlier under specific circumstances.
Administration Cites Past Incidents
In an official statement, DU Proctor Manoj Kumar explained that there have been multiple instances in the past where event organizers failed to maintain control over demonstrations, leading to escalating tensions and a breakdown of order within the campus. He emphasized that the current measure is a precautionary step to prevent similar situations from recurring.
Faculty Members Raise Objections
The decision has not been without criticism. Mithuraj Dhussiya, an Associate Professor in the English Department at Hansraj College and a member of DU’s Executive Council, described the move as a “blanket ban” that goes far beyond what is necessary. While acknowledging that protests should remain peaceful and that the university has a duty to maintain discipline, he argued that using “traffic obstruction” as a justification to completely prohibit assemblies is unacceptable.
Dhussiya raised pointed questions about whether the administration is attempting to suppress mobilization around sensitive issues such as faculty appointments, the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), the UGC Equity Bill, and the recent suspension of teachers. He further asserted that the Proctor Office does not have the authority to unilaterally impose a complete ban on public gatherings and has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the order.
Context of Recent Campus Tensions
The timing of this directive is notable, coming in the wake of several controversial incidents on campus. Just last week, Delhi Police registered two FIRs following a clash between two student groups during a protest event. Additionally, on February 12, historian Irfan Habib was targeted when a bucket of water was thrown at him while he was addressing a social justice program.
In response to these events, the university administration has stated that it is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff, while maintaining peace and order across the campus. However, critics argue that such sweeping restrictions infringe upon fundamental rights and stifle legitimate dissent, calling for a more balanced approach that addresses security concerns without curtailing democratic expression.
