JNU violence: Masked men enter campus, attack students, teachers

January 6, 2020 Crime

New Delhi: A masked mob armed with sticks and stones barged into Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday evening and beat up students and teachers.

At least 20 injured, including Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU), President Aishe Ghosh. JNUSU General Secretary Satish Chandra was also injured in the JNU violence.

The injured have been admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) as chaos reigned on the campus for nearly two hours.

The JNUSU has alleged the involvement of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad or ABVP, the student body linked to the BJP, in the attack.

A premeditated and coordinated attack by ABVP and other extremist goons from outside, hostels vandalized, students terrorised and attacked.#SOSJNU Part 3 pic.twitter.com/olYeSvKUjF
— JNUSU (@JNUSUofficial) January 5, 2020

On the other hand, the ABVP alleged that their members were attacked by leftist students.

Following the request of JNU administration, the Delhi police held a flag march in the campus.

Police said it conducted a flag march and the situation was brought under control after it got a written request from the JNU administration.

Sources said Home Minister Amit Shah has asked Delhi Police chief Amulya Patnaik for a report over the JNU violence.

Union Home Minister has spoken to Delhi Police Commissioner over JNU violence and instructed him to take necessary action. Hon’ble minister has also ordered an enquiry to be carried out by a Joint CP level officer and asked for a report to be submitted as soon as possible.
— गृहमंत्री कार्यालय, HMO India (@HMOIndia) January 5, 2020

Meanwhile, leaders across the party line condemned the attack.

The brutal attack on JNU students & teachers by masked thugs, that has left many seriously injured, is shocking.

The fascists in control of our nation, are afraid of the voices of our brave students. Today’s violence in JNU is a reflection of that fear.

#SOSJNU pic.twitter.com/kruTzbxJFJ
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 5, 2020

Spoke to Hon’ble LG and urged him to direct police to restore order. He has assured that he is closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps https://t.co/gpRGCCbwGF
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) January 5, 2020

Horrifying images from JNU — the place I know & remember was one for fierce debates & opinions but never violence. I unequivocally condemn the events of today. This govt, regardless of what has been said the past few weeks, wants universities to be safe spaces for all students.
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) January 5, 2020