Graffiti Demanding Umar Khalid's Release Discovered at JNU
Controversial graffiti urging for Umar Khalid's freedom appears at Jawaharlal Nehru University, prompting administrative scrutiny.
Graffiti stating 'Free Umar Khalid' and 'Long Live Naxalbari' was found at JNU.
The JNU administration is investigating the incident amid rising tensions.
Umar Khalid has been imprisoned since September 2020 related to the Delhi riots.
Graffiti advocating for the release of Umar Khalid and proclaiming 'Long Live Naxalbari' was discovered on the walls of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi on Saturday. This incident follows a similar occurrence at Jamia Millia Islamia, where slogans demanding the release of jailed activists were also noted. The emergence of these messages has reignited debates surrounding freedom of expression and campus politics.
The JNU administration has acknowledged the graffiti and stated that it is currently investigating the matter. An official emphasized that the university will not permit any actions that disrupt the peace and integrity of the campus environment. Sources within JNU indicated that such expressions would not be tolerated, reflecting the administration's commitment to maintaining order.
The graffiti has sparked backlash from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a student organization that accused leftist groups of attempting to undermine the academic atmosphere. ABVP representatives claimed that images circulating online depicted members of the All India Students' Association (AISA) engaged in this graffiti, which they deemed objectionable. They have called for the identification and punishment of those responsible for the graffiti, asserting that freedom of expression should not excuse disrespect towards national figures or vandalism of university property.
Umar Khalid, a former JNU scholar, has been incarcerated since September 2020 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) due to his alleged involvement in a conspiracy related to the February 2020 Delhi riots, which resulted in 53 fatalities. His prolonged detention has raised concerns among student groups and civil rights advocates, who continue to demand a fair trial and transparency in the judicial process.
This incident at JNU coincides with ongoing protests at Jamia Millia Islamia, where students have been advocating for the restoration of their student union, disbanded since 2006. The political implications of these events have been significant, with the BJP criticizing the involvement of Congress MP Imran Masood in student protests. The Jamia administration has condemned the slogans found on its campus, labeling them as harmful to national integrity and sovereignty.
