New Delhi, Feb. 27 -- Dozens of protesting students, including Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU) president Aditi Mishra and former president Nitish Kumar, were detained outside the JNU campus on Thursday after they clashed with security personnel while attempting to march toward the headquarters of the Union ministry of education.

A heavy security presence was reported through the day, including Rapid Action Force personnel, extensive barricading, and riot-control vehicles. Police said protesters were detained after the march turned violent. The protesting students, meanwhile, alleged the use of excessive force against them.

An FIR has been registered under sections 221 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public...