New Delhi: Congress MP and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi struck out at the University of Delhi (DU) after it issued an advisory to its students and faculty, urging them to refrain from taking part in the ongoing demonstrations against the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy at Jantar Mantar.
DU, on Thursday, appealed to its students to “stay away from Jantar Mantar and prioritise their safety.
Reacting to this advisory, Rahul: “How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights?”
“Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes”, he said.
The University was also slammed by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi. In a post on ‘X’, she wrote: “Have some shame Delhi University.”
The sit-in demonstration at Jantar Mantar — started by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) — was joined by activist Sonam Wangchuk. The group, joined by thousands of protesting students, have been demanding the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, while also pushing for broader educational reforms.
The Centre has agreed to meet a CJP Delegation at Delhi’s Constitution Club to try and resolve the issue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced stricter laws against those involved in paper leaks.
With protests continuing at Jantar Mantar, the DU issued a notice that was also posted on ‘X’.
“Dear students and faculty, your safety matters to us. Please note that any unlawful assemblies or demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, which are strictly regulated as per the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, may invite legal action,” it said.
The University also warned students against a surge in misinformation and fake news, while advising them to refrain from participating in protests, as reported by News18.
A similar advisory was issued by the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), citing the Supreme Court’s directions on public demonstrations.
In a post on ‘X’, the JNU wrote: “All stakeholders of JNU’s epistemic community are advised to act responsibly and prioritize their personal safety. In accordance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s directions on public demonstrations, you are requested to refrain from participating in or visiting gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar, New Delhi.”
“Please exercise responsibility on social media. Violations may invite legal consequences under applicable laws as well as disciplinary action under the University’s code of conduct. You are also encouraged to uphold the values of academic responsibility and responsible citizenship”, it said.
Trouble broke out on July 20 after CJP supporters, including students, began a ‘Sansad Chalo’ march. Clashes followed with the police, leading to injuries and registering of FIRs.
Rahul had himself launched a demonstration outside the Prime Minister’s residence and was detained by the police.