New Delhi, Oct. 20 -- The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) administration has agreed to revoke the rustication of Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) office-bearers and a former union president, following a 17-day indefinite hunger strike by students demanding democratic rights, better hostel facilities and equitable access to education.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the JNUSU said the administration had also agreed to withdraw police cases and proctorial enquiries linked to student protests, marking a significant development in the union's prolonged standoff with the university authorities.
The hunger strike began after a University General Body Meeting on October 1, with students raising concerns ranging from punitive action against elected representatives to hostel infrastructure and admission procedures.
Among the commitments secured, the administration has agreed to form committees to review the contentious Chief Proctor's Office manual, examine the restoration of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Entrance Examination and address concerns over reservation in hostel allotments. It has also agreed to provide the Equal Opportunity Office audit report within a week and reorganise the office in consultation with student representatives.
On infrastructure, structural audits have been promised for Tapti and Mahi-Mandavi hostels and the TEFLAS facility. The administration has also committed to making geysers functional in all hostels within two weeks, reopening the Centre for the Study of Law and Governance canteen and extending school library timings until 9 pm.
A 25 per cent increase in the Merit-cum-Means scholarship is also under consideration.
The union will monitor implementation of the commitments ahead of a follow-up meeting in two weeks.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.