JNU protest turns violent; JNUSU, ABVP accuse each other of attacks
Times of India
by TOI CITY DESKFebruary 23, 2026
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Tensions escalated at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in New Delhi as student groups clashed during a protest march, resulting in injuries and accusations from both sides. The JNUSU organized the protest, known as "Samta Juloos," demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit and the reversal of a rustication order. However, the demonstration turned violent when a scuffle broke out near the East Gate, leading to stone pelting and allegations of aggression from both Left-aligned groups and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). While JNUSU accused ABVP members of initiating the violence, the latter denied these claims, accusing the Left-backed organizations of instigating clashes and spreading misinformation. Videos shared by students captured chaotic scenes of confusion and fear as rival groups exchanged blows near the protest site.
The incident occurred early Monday morning, with tensions rising after university authorities failed to engage directly with protesters. Instead, JNUSU claimed that ABVP members were allowed to confront the marchers, leading to the escalation of violence. According to students, several individuals were injured in the clash, with some claiming they were attacked by ABVP activists who allegedly pelted stones and targeted unarmed demonstrators. The university administration did not immediately respond to queries regarding the incident.
The conflict highlights the deepening political polarization among student groups in India, reflecting broader societal divisions between Left-wing and Right-wing ideologies. Similar clashes have occurred at other universities across the country, underscoring a growing trend of campus unrest tied to political dissent and administrative inaction. Observers note that such incidents often stem from long-standing grievances over perceived bias in university leadership and a lack of dialogue between opposing groups.
This incident has drawn significant attention both within India and internationally, with human rights organizations expressing concern over the safety of students and academic freedom. The clash at JNU serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by institutions of higher education in maintaining
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/23/2026