In a bold call for accountability, Dhruv Katoch, a prominent voice in student politics, has urged Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) authorities to immediately withdraw hostel facilities from students involved in raising controversial slogans on campus. Katoch, known for his outspoken stance against anti-national activities, emphasized that such measures are essential to maintain discipline and uphold the university’s sanctity.
The demand comes amid renewed tensions at JNU, where recent reports highlighted instances of students chanting slogans perceived as divisive. Katoch argued that providing subsidized hostel accommodations to those engaging in such acts undermines the institution’s ethos and burdens law-abiding students. ‘Hostels are not privileges for disruptors; they are facilities for genuine scholars,’ he stated firmly during a public address.
Katoch’s proposal has sparked a heated debate. Supporters hail it as a necessary step to deter future incidents, pointing to past disruptions that have tarnished JNU’s reputation. Critics, however, label it as overly punitive, arguing it could stifle free speech and disproportionately affect vulnerable students.
Recalling similar past episodes, Katoch referenced the 2016 JNU sedition row, underscoring the need for proactive administration. He called on the university administration to act swiftly, warning that inaction could embolden further unrest. As JNU grapples with balancing academic freedom and national integrity, Katoch’s demand places renewed pressure on policymakers to enforce stricter norms.
This development unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing student agitations across India, where universities are increasingly seen as battlegrounds for ideological clashes. Whether JNU heeds Katoch’s advice remains to be seen, but his voice has undeniably amplified the conversation on campus accountability.