Delhi University has announced a temporary prohibition on all meetings, processions, and protests within its campus for a period of one month. This decision comes in the wake of recent clashes that erupted as a result of protests over new equity guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission. The directive was issued by the proctor of Delhi University after a confrontation occurred between various student groups advocating for the implementation of these guidelines, which currently remain stayed by the Supreme Court.
The notification stated that the order was prompted by concerns that unregulated public gatherings could potentially disrupt traffic, pose threats to human life, and disturb public peace. Indeed, the university has previously experienced situations where events organized by students spiraled out of control, resulting in significant disturbances and a decline in law and order within the campuses.
Specific Restrictions Enforced on Campus Activities
Under the new order, the university has explicitly prohibited any public meetings, rallies, demonstrations, assemblies of five or more people, and any activities that could interrupt public tranquillity or traffic flow. Additionally, the use of hazardous materials, such as torches and beacons, is also banned. The move follows escalating tensions from a protest that had occurred last Friday, where opposing student factions exchanged accusations of violence and intimidation.
The All India Students Association (AISA), a Left-backed student union, claimed that its members faced threats and casteist abuse from members of a rival group during the protest advocating for the UGC equity guidelines. Conversely, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) alleged that a female journalist associated with a YouTube channel was assaulted by activists from the Left-backed group. The journalist reported that she was targeted by a large crowd, claiming to have received threats from peers due to her background.
Appeals for Peace and Harmony
Following the incidents, Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh urged all faculty and students to foster a sense of harmony and avoid activities that might exacerbate tensions or negatively impact the institution’s reputation. He emphasized the importance of social harmony, reminding the university community of its diverse makeup, which includes students from various states and communities across India.
Supreme Court’s Involvement in UGC Guidelines
Recently, the Supreme Court issued a stay on the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, highlighting concerns over vague language in the regulation concerning caste-based discrimination. The court pointed out potential misuse of the definitions provided, asserting that the language should undergo modification. For the time being, the original UGC guidelines issued in 2012 will remain in force.
The new equity regulations had been established to combat caste-based discrimination and mandated that higher education institutions create specific committees and helplines to handle complaints from students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
