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Delhi University has banned protests for a month amid rising tensions over the UGC’s anti-casteism rules. With clashes, FIRs and sharp reactions from faculty, is this a move to maintain order or curb dissent on campus?
Delhi University has imposed a month-long ban on protests
New Delhi: Delhi University has imposed a month-long ban on protests, public meetings, processions and demonstrations across its campuses, citing concerns over law and order. The order, issued on February 17 by the proctor’s office, comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the University Grants Commission’s proposed anti-discrimination or “anti-casteism” rules.
In the directive, the university stated that unrestricted gatherings in recent weeks had the potential to disrupt traffic, threaten safety and disturb public peace. The administration said it acted after receiving inputs that such assemblies could escalate further.
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The order also referenced instructions from the assistant commissioner of police, Civil Lines, prohibiting public meetings, slogan-shouting, speeches and the carrying of torches or similar materials that may affect public tranquillity or traffic flow.
Under the new restrictions, assembly of five or more persons for demonstrations has been barred. The use of “hazardous materials” such as mashals or beacons has also been prohibited. The ban has taken immediate effect and will remain in force for one month unless revoked earlier.
The development follows recent clashes between student groups over the UGC’s proposed anti-caste discrimination regulations. While several anti-caste groups have demanded swift implementation of the rules, some students from the general category have opposed them, alleging bias.
Last week, two FIRs were registered after a scuffle broke out during a protest related to the issue. The matter is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, which has temporarily halted the implementation of the rules.
In a separate incident earlier this month, historian S. Irfan Habib was allegedly targeted during a social justice event when a bucket of water was thrown at him while he was speaking.
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Reacting to the decision, Mithuraj Dhusiya, associate professor at Hansraj College and a member of the university’s executive council, termed the order a “blanket clampdown.” While acknowledging the need for peaceful demonstrations, he questioned the administration’s rationale for invoking traffic obstruction to justify a broad prohibition.
Dhusiya argued that the proctor’s office cannot unilaterally impose a sweeping ban on public gatherings and urged the administration to reconsider the move.
The restriction has added another layer to the ongoing debate over free expression, campus governance and the implementation of equity-related reforms at the university.
