Jamia Millia Islamia on Monday ordered that students' union elections be held within 15 days of the union's constitution being approved, The Hindu reported, citing inputs from PTI. Students have been protesting since October 11 for the union to be restored.
What the order says
The order, issued by Registrar Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi:
- Sets elections within 15 days of the union constitution's approval.
- Revokes suspensions and show-cause notices issued to students during the protest.
- Asks students to apologise for any defamatory remarks made against the administration.
- Sets up a committee to inquire into the conduct of security staff during the protest.
Why the protest isn't over
The order gives no assurance on the protesters' demand that the Vice-Chancellor and the Chief Proctor resign, so two students are continuing their hunger strike.
Background
The situation turned tense on Sunday, October 25, when attempts were made to forcibly remove the protesting students, according to The Hindu. With classes suspended, water supply on the campus was cut and no one was allowed in or out. Students still gathered in large numbers amid heavy police deployment.
What next
The election timeline depends on when the union's constitution is approved, and the order does not give a date for that.