Amidst Protests, Jamia Takes Major Decision: All Courses to Move Online
Citing security concerns, the administration of Jamia Millia Islamia University has decided to shift regular classes for all courses to an online mode, effective immediately.
In light of the ongoing student protests and the tense situation at Jamia Millia Islamia University in the capital, the administration has taken a significant decision. Citing security concerns, the university has decided to conduct regular classes for all courses in an online mode, effective immediately. According to an official notification issued by the Jamia administration, this arrangement will remain in place until further notice. A statement issued by the university registrar, Prof. Mohammad Mahtab Alam Rizvi, noted that this step has been taken to ensure the safety of bonafide students on campus and to prevent any disruption to their academic activities.
Why are there protests at Jamia?
Protests have been ongoing at Jamia for the past two weeks, with students demanding the restoration of the student union. The student union at the university was dissolved in 2006; students have been staging an indefinite hunger strike and sit-in protest since October 12, demanding its reinstatement. The situation escalated today following the removal of students' tents and the displacement of those on hunger strike from the protest site at the campus's Gulistan-e-Ghalib Park. The students allege that the administration is resorting to the use of force even while discussions are underway, and that in-person classes have been suspended with the intent to suppress the movement and prevent students from organizing.
Guidelines Issued for Faculty and Students
The university administration has clarified that while in-person classes on campus will remain suspended, academic progress should not be hindered. To this end, guidelines have been issued for both faculty and students. Meanwhile, all university deans, heads of departments, and faculty members have been instructed to conduct all classes online and provide academic materials to students in an online format. Furthermore, students have been directed to attend classes regularly, following the online timetables and class links issued by their respective departments.
How long will this order remain in effect?
The university has not announced a specific date for the resumption of in-person (physical) classes. The administration has stated that a further update will be issued only after reviewing the situation. The university administration has also clarified that all guidelines and updates regarding this matter will be shared exclusively through the university's official channels. Students are advised to rely solely on official notifications.
