Delhi’s Jamia Millia Islamia university on Monday extended online classes for all courses until November 8 amid protests on campus over the restoration of student union elections.
The university has also decided to conduct its second mid-term semester examinations online.
In an order issued on Monday, the university registrar said the decision was taken at a meeting of Deans, Heads, Directors and other officials chaired by the Vice-Chancellor to review the situation on campus.
“The online classes shall continue till the forthcoming Diwali’s holidays (i.e. till 8th November, 2026), thereafter, continuation of online classes will be reviewed based on the prevailing situation in the University Campus,” the order stated.
The respective Deans, Heads
and Directors, in consultation with the Controller of Examinations, will decide the examination schedule and other arrangements. PhD research scholars have also been directed to consult their supervisors online.
Why Are Jamia Students Protesting?
The protests at the institute began on October 12, with students demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU), whose elections have not been held since 2006. Students have also sought a clear timeline for the polls, the withdrawal of disciplinary action against protesters and an inquiry into the conduct of security personnel.
The agitation intensified over the past few days, with hunger strikes and confrontations involving students, university staff and security personnel. The university shifted all classes online on October 24, citing concerns over students’ safety and security amid the tense campus situation.
On Monday, the administration agreed to hold student union elections within 15 days of approval of the union’s constitution, revoke suspension and show-cause notices issued during the protest, and set up a committee to examine the conduct of security personnel.
However, protesting students refused to call off their agitation, demanding that the university announce an election date.
