Violence Erupts at JNU During Student March, 14 Arrested

A recent student march at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) escalated into violence, resulting in the arrest of 14 individuals, including prominent student leaders. The clashes between students and police have raised concerns over the use of force and the right to protest. Videos of the incident have surfaced on social media, showing intense confrontations. The protests were part of a larger movement against recent administrative decisions. As tensions continue, a heavy police presence remains on campus. Read on for a detailed account of the events and the implications for student activism.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 27, 2026, 10:28 IST

Violent Clashes at Jawaharlal Nehru University

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi has once again become a battleground. On Thursday evening, a 'Long March' organized by the student union (JNUSU) led to violent confrontations between students and the Delhi police. Authorities have taken a firm stance, arresting 14 individuals, including current president Aditi Mishra and former president Nitish Kumar.

According to the Delhi police, those detained include prominent student leaders such as JNUSU's former president Nitish Kumar, current president Aditi Mishra, vice president Gopika Babu, and joint secretary Danish Ali. An FIR has been filed at the Vasant Kunj North police station, and an investigation is underway.

Heavy Police Presence Following Clashes

In the aftermath of the altercations between students and police, a significant police presence remains on campus. Both police and JNU students sustained injuries during the clashes, with police claiming they were attacked, while protesters allege excessive force was used against them.

Police officials reported that rioters threw sticks and shoes, resulting in injuries to approximately 25 officers, including senior officials like ACP Ved Prakash and ACP Sanghamitra. Some officers reportedly suffered bites during the scuffle.

Videos of JNUSU Violence Surface Online

Videos circulating on social media depict students allegedly affiliated with JNUSU clashing with police, slapping officers, hurling insults, and throwing sticks at security forces. One clip shows PhD student Nitish Kumar climbing a university wall and allegedly inciting fellow students, while another video reportedly features a student named Shrey slapping a police officer.

In a separate clip, students are seen cursing security personnel and throwing sticks at a member of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) stationed outside the campus.

Details of the Student March

The police stated that students had called for a 'Long March' from the JNU campus to the Ministry of Education. This march was part of ongoing protests against recent statements made by JNU Vice Chancellor Shantishree Dhulipudi Pandit regarding the implementation of University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, the removal of JNUSU officials, and the proposed Rohith Act.

Despite being advised by the JNU administration that protests outside the campus were not permitted, approximately 400-500 students gathered and initiated the march. Around 3:20 PM, the protesters attempted to exit through the main gate towards the Ministry.

A senior police officer noted that as tensions escalated, barricades set up outside the campus were breached. Protesters threw banners, sticks, and shoes, leading to physical confrontations. Some police officers were bitten during the altercations, resulting in injuries to several officers on site. The police have filed charges against the students under various sections, including 221 (obstruction of public servants), 121 (causing injury to public servants), and 132 (assaulting public servants).