University is accused of violating the privacy by displaying personal details of 17 students as protests escalate
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — The Jamia Millia Islamia administration faced severe criticism on Friday after it displayed posters containing personal details of 17 students involved in recent protests. The posters, which included photographs, names, home addresses, email IDs, and educational details of the students, were pasted at five locations across the campus, including Gate No. 7. The move sparked outrage among students and activists, who called it a blatant violation of privacy.
The posters were put up early Friday morning but were removed by the evening following strong opposition from student groups. The students, who were recently suspended for their involvement in protests, alleged that the administration’s actions were aimed at defaming them.
“If the purpose was to prevent us from entering the campus, they could have simply put up our names and pictures. But why disclose our home addresses and phone numbers? Many of us are now receiving calls from unknown numbers. This is a clear violation of our privacy,” said one of the affected students, who wished to remain anonymous.
The controversy comes a day after the university administration filed a police complaint against the students, leading to the registration of an FIR under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. On Thursday, the 17 students were removed from the protest site outside the central canteen at 5 am and taken into custody. They were later released in the evening.
The protests began on February 10, when students demanded the withdrawal of show-cause notices issued to them for their involvement in a December 2024 demonstration marking Jamia Violence Day. Dissatisfied with the students’ responses to the notices, the administration referred the matter to the disciplinary committee, which is scheduled to meet on February 25.
“We were peacefully protesting to demand the withdrawal of the notices. Instead of addressing our concerns, the administration has resorted to intimidation and harassment,” said another student.
The posters also revealed the names of student organizations associated with the protesters, further escalating tensions. Five of the 17 students are women, and some of their mobile numbers and email IDs were displayed, leading to concerns about their safety.
In a show of solidarity, student organization Disha staged a demonstration at Delhi University’s North Campus on Friday afternoon. Meanwhile, students at Jamia marched across the campus on Thursday evening, condemning the administration’s actions.
The university administration defended its decision, stating that the students were “undisciplined” and their protests were disrupting academic activities. However, attempts to reach the university’s Public Relations Officer, Professor Qamarul Hasan, for further comments were unsuccessful.
The incident has reignited debates about student rights and privacy on campus. “This is not just about Jamia; it’s about how institutions treat dissent. Displaying personal details of students is unacceptable and sets a dangerous precedent,” said a member of a student rights group.
As tensions simmer, the focus now shifts to the disciplinary committee meeting on February 25, where the fate of the suspended students will be decided. For now, the removal of the posters has provided temporary relief, but the students vow to continue their fight for justice.
“We will not be silenced,” said one protester. “This is our campus, and we have the right to raise our voices without fear of retaliation.”
