Jamia Millia Islamia University in Delhi has decided to move classes online amid ongoing student protests and a controversy over slogans allegedly written on campus walls. The decision comes as tensions continue over demands for the restoration of the university's students' union and the announcement of an election schedule for 2026-27.
The university's move follows a row over slogans, including "Free Kashmir" and "Free Sharjeel Imam", reportedly found on campus walls. Messages targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the university's Vice-Chancellor were also reported, triggering criticism and demands for action against those responsible.
Why has Jamia Millia Islamia moved classes online?
The decision to shift classes online comes amid concerns over the campus situation as the student agitation continues. The protests began on October 12, with students demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students' Union (JMISU) and an official notification announcing the schedule for the 2026-27 elections. The university's students' union was dissolved in 2006, and elections have not been held since.
Students have been holding an indefinite hunger strike at Ghalib Lawns on campus, insisting that the university announce an election schedule. The agitation has also included demonstrations and marches by students supporting the demand for the restoration of an elected student body.
The latest developments have heightened tensions on campus, with the university administration facing pressure to address the students' demands while maintaining security and ensuring academic activities continue.
What is the controversy over slogans at Jamia?
The controversy erupted after slogans, including "Free Kashmir" and "Free Sharjeel Imam", were reportedly found written on walls inside the university campus. Other messages targeted the RSS, ABVP and the Vice-Chancellor.
The university administration condemned the graffiti and said it was attempting to identify those responsible. Officials also said the slogans were removed from the walls. The incident prompted objections from student organisations and led to increased security measures on campus. The slogans controversy has added another layer to the ongoing student agitation, although the protesters' central demand remains the restoration of the students' union and the announcement of an election schedule.
? SHOCKER FROM Jamia Millia Islamia First "Free Kashmir," now "Bring Back Islam" painted on campus walls. => Indian taxpayers fund degrees, NOT anti-national vandalism. IDENTIFY and RUSTICATE them. https://t.co/IzqYsBXZ5O https://t.co/qGsrwU2or6
— Megh Updates ?™ (@MeghUpdates) October 23, 2026
What are the students demanding?
The protesting students have called for the immediate announcement of the 2026-27 JMISU election schedule. They have also demanded the withdrawal of disciplinary action initiated against protesting students and the removal of the university's Chief Proctor and Security Advisor.
In response to the agitation, the university constituted a five-member committee to draft a constitution for the students' union. The committee has been asked to examine the circumstances surrounding the union's dissolution, relevant court rulings and the recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee.
The panel is also expected to consult stakeholders, including students, before submitting a draft constitution by December 20. However, protesters have argued that the process could delay the restoration of the union and have continued to press for an immediate election schedule.
With classes moving online amid the continuing controversy, the focus remains on the university's next steps, the students' demands and efforts to maintain academic continuity during the campus agitation.
