Alumni of Jamia Millia Islamia, along with family members of the university’s founders, have voiced their support for students advocating for the establishment of a student union. During a press conference held on Monday, they urged the university administration to engage in dialogue with the students to address their concerns.

The event featured notable attendees, including Syeda Hameed, Siddiqur Rahman Kidwai, and Samina Mishra. Student representatives Aamir Haider from the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and Zeeshan from the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) were also present, highlighting the collective call for a platform where student voices can be heard.

Concerns were raised regarding reports of disciplinary actions against protesting students, as well as allegations of restrictions imposed on campus activities. The speakers emphasised the importance of allowing students to express their grievances and participate in decisions that influence university life.

Legacy of Jamia’s Founders

Syeda Hameed articulated the vision held by Jamia’s founders, noting their significant contributions to the institution’s development. She referenced Dr. Ansari’s aspiration for a university modelled after Aligarh and acknowledged her father’s role in shaping the university’s concept.

Hameed mentioned influential figures such as Dr. Zakir Hussain and Dr. Shafi-ur-Rahman Kidwai, asserting that they would be closely observing the unfolding situation at Jamia. She contended that the students’ push for a student union aligns with the legacy of Dr. Zakir Hussain, who envisioned an inclusive environment for student participation.

Siddiqur Rahman Kidwai reiterated the historical significance of student movements at Jamia and Aligarh, expressing concern over reports of potential expulsions for those advocating for a student union. He argued that the establishment of such a body is essential in a democratic nation.

Call for Constructive Engagement

Samina Mishra, a former student of Jamia, also expressed her solidarity with the protesting students. She called for the university administration to foster an environment conducive to dialogue, stressing the need for student concerns to be acknowledged. Mishra critiqued the current handling of the protests, underscoring the necessity of engaging with young voices to find a resolution.

She highlighted the responsibility of the university community to ensure that students can articulate their views and interact with the administration. Sanam, a representative from SFI, described the protests as part of a broader struggle for democratic rights at Jamia. She alleged that students were facing increasing restrictions on campus, including a lack of essential facilities like electricity and water.

Additionally, she claimed that students’ tents had been removed while the administration sought to engage them in discussions. According to Sanam, there have been instances of campus walls being plastered over and gates being welded shut, raising questions about the administration’s actions against students advocating for a union. She further alleged that police were contacting students at home, sharing personal information between the university and law enforcement.

Ongoing Demand for a Student Union

The call for a student union remains central to the ongoing protests, with students asserting that an elected body would provide a formal mechanism for raising grievances and negotiating with the administration. They believe that such a union is vital for their participation in campus governance.

Recent developments, including the dismantling of tents and alleged restrictions on campus facilities, have heightened tensions between students and the administration. The speakers at the press conference urged the university to engage constructively with the protesters, advocating for dialogue as a means to resolve the ongoing dispute.

The conference concluded with a renewed appeal for the administration to acknowledge the students’ demand for representation and to create a conducive atmosphere for negotiations. The alumni and founders’ families reiterated the importance of listening to student voices in shaping the future of the university.

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