Rahul Gandhi slams Delhi University over Jantar Mantar protest advisory

Rahul Gandhi slams Delhi University over Jantar Mantar protest advisory

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday, July 24, 2026, condemned Delhi University for issuing an advisory that urged students and faculty to avoid protests at Jantar Mantar. Gandhi accused the institution of threatening students for exercising their democratic rights and stated that the university would be held accountable.

The exchange followed a social media post by the University of Delhi on Thursday night warning that unlawful assemblies or demonstrations at Jantar Mantar could invite legal action. The university stated that such activities are strictly regulated by the Supreme Court of India and could pose risks to personal safety as well as academic and professional progress.

"How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights? Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes."

Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader, via X

Delhi University also cautioned its community against fake and misleading content being circulated to fuel the current situation. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh added that excessive politics could be harmful to both students and institutions.

CJP Protests and Demands

The advisory comes amid ongoing demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 20. The group is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. These protests have since expanded to cities including Bengaluru and Mumbai.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke announced via video message on Friday that the agitation would continue despite the end of a hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk. Dipke, who returned to Jantar Mantar after a period of medical treatment for fever, described the protest as belonging to the country's youth rather than any individual or political party.

CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka stated that the group would accept nothing less than Pradhan's resignation or removal from the Union Cabinet. Other core demands include compensation for families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide and the withdrawal of FIRs and legal cases against students.

Government Response and Negotiations

The government has engaged in talks with CJP representatives. Following a meeting at Gurugram's Medanta Hospital on Thursday night with Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike. Further discussions were scheduled for 12:30 pm Friday at the Constitution Club of India.

According to Ashutosh Ranka, the government has given in-principle approval for the withdrawal of FIRs against students and compensation for affected families, but has sought time until Saturday afternoon to respond to the demand for Pradhan's resignation.

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav defended the government's actions, stating that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the administration has worked with students' interests in mind. He noted that the government conducted a re-exam for NEET and implemented a system to address shortcomings.

Civil and Legal Fallout

The unrest has led to significant disruptions in the national capital. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation closed 18 stations on Friday, July 24, including the New Delhi Metro station. Additionally, Delhi Police cancelled all routine leave for personnel due to the law and order situation.

CJP spokesperson Saurav Das alleged that police have been detaining lawyers, food delivery volunteers, and protesters. While the government initially denied these claims, it later assured the CJP delegation that appropriate instructions would be issued to police to stop such incidents if they were occurring.

Legal responses have emerged from several fronts:

• The Delhi High Court agreed to hear a public interest litigation challenging internet shutdowns around Jantar Mantar.
• The Bombay City Civil and Sessions Court Bar Association passed a resolution condemning the use of force against students and offered legal assistance.
• The Bombay High Court designated special courts in Nagpur and Aurangabad to try examination malpractice offences, with trials required to be completed within three months under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

Parliamentary Deadlock

The controversy has paralyzed legislative proceedings. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced adjournments on Friday amid sloganeering by the Opposition. Rahul Gandhi stated the Opposition would refuse further discussions until Dharmendra Pradhan is removed from office and Prime Minister Narendra Modi issues an apology.

The Union Cabinet has approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, proposing stricter punishments for paper leaks. This amended Bill is expected to be considered by Parliament on Monday.

Other academic institutions have followed Delhi University's lead; Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) issued its own advisory urging its community to prioritize safety and refrain from visiting gatherings at Jantar Mantar.