JNU asks students to avoid Jantar Mantar gatherings amid ongoing NEET protest movement

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has issued an advisory asking students to avoid visiting or participating in gatherings around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi amid the ongoing protests linked to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy. The university said the advisory was issued in the interest of student safety and urged members of the university community to act responsibly during a period of heightened public demonstrations.

The development comes as protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continue to attract attention across the country. The movement has been demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and has called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

In its official communication, JNU advised students, faculty members and other stakeholders to prioritise their personal safety and remain mindful of legal guidelines governing public demonstrations. The university referred to directions issued by the Supreme Court regarding public gatherings and requested students to refrain from attending assemblies or demonstrations at or around Jantar Mantar.

According to the university, students should focus on their academic responsibilities while ensuring they do not become involved in situations that could expose them to legal or safety-related risks. The advisory also reminded students that actions violating applicable laws could result in legal consequences as well as disciplinary action under university regulations.

JNU further encouraged students to uphold the values of responsible citizenship and academic integrity. University officials stressed that maintaining a safe learning environment remains a priority and urged students to make informed decisions during a period marked by public debate and political activity.

The advisory reflects growing concern among educational institutions about the impact of prolonged protests on student welfare. As demonstrations continue in different parts of the country, universities are increasingly issuing guidelines aimed at ensuring students remain safe and focused on their studies.

Social media warning and nationwide protest plans

Apart from advising students to stay away from protest sites, JNU also highlighted the importance of responsible behaviour on social media platforms. The university cautioned students against sharing misleading information or engaging in online activities that could violate laws or university rules.

Officials noted that social media has become a major source of information during the ongoing protests, but it can also contribute to the spread of misinformation. Students were encouraged to verify facts before sharing content and to exercise caution while participating in online discussions related to the issue.

JNU’s advisory follows a similar message issued earlier by Delhi University (DU). DU also urged students and faculty members to avoid unlawful assemblies at Jantar Mantar and emphasised that participation in such activities could lead to legal complications and affect academic progress.

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Delhi University stated that public demonstrations in the area are regulated under legal guidelines and warned students that involvement in activities violating those rules could have long-term consequences. The university also advised students to be careful about false or misleading information circulating online, which could further escalate tensions.

The advisories from both universities come at a time when the Cockroach Janata Party has announced plans for nationwide peaceful demonstrations. The organisation has called on students, youth groups and civil society organisations to participate in coordinated protests demanding action over the alleged NEET paper leak.

According to the group, demonstrations are being organised in multiple cities across India. The CJP has urged supporters to maintain peace and cooperate with local authorities while conducting protests. Organisers have also appealed to student unions and community groups to assist with permissions and logistical arrangements.

The movement gained momentum after allegations surrounding examination irregularities triggered widespread concern among students and parents. Protesters argue that stronger measures are needed to ensure fairness and transparency in the examination system.

In addition to public demonstrations, a delegation of the CJP is expected to engage in discussions with representatives of the Union government. Sources indicate that a meeting between party representatives and government officials has been planned at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi.

The talks are expected to focus on several key demands raised by the protest movement. These include the resignation of the education minister, action against those responsible for examination irregularities and support for affected students and families.

The latest developments come shortly after activist Sonam Wangchuk ended a prolonged hunger strike connected to the protest campaign. Wangchuk had been fasting for nearly four weeks before ending his strike following discussions with Union ministers. His participation had brought additional national attention to the movement and increased pressure on authorities to respond to student concerns.

Meanwhile, security arrangements remain in place around protest locations in the national capital as authorities monitor developments. Large gatherings, demonstrations and public meetings continue to draw significant attention from students, political groups and the general public.

As the debate over examination reforms continues, universities are seeking to balance students’ rights to express their views with concerns about safety, academic responsibilities and compliance with legal regulations. Through their advisories, institutions such as JNU and Delhi University are encouraging students to remain informed, exercise caution and focus on their educational commitments while the issue continues to unfold at the national level.