JNU, DU warn students against NEET protests; Rahul Gandhi erupts: 'How dare you?'

In an advisory posted on X, the central university urged students, faculty and other stakeholders to avoid gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and to exercise caution on social media, warning that violations could attract legal consequences as well as disciplinary action under the university's code of conduct.

JNU issues advisory

The advisory read: "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."

Delhi University had issued similar warning

JNU's advisory comes a day after the University of Delhi (DU) issued a similar warning, asking students to stay away from protests to avoid legal complications and ensure their safety.

In its post on X, the premier university said: "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. Such activities can also pose serious risks to students’ personal safety and significantly impact their academic progress and professional opportunities.

"Accordingly, all students are urged to stay away from Jantar Mantar and to prioritise their safety and compliance with the law. Furthermore, you are advised to exercise caution as a significant amount of fake and misleading content is being created and circulated to fuel the situation."

Rahul Gandhi slams DU advisory

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi strongly criticised the Delhi University advisory, accusing the institution of threatening students for exercising their democratic rights.

In a post on X, the Congress MP wrote: "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."

Protests over 2026 NEET paper leak continue

The development comes as student protests continue across the country over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has intensified its campaign against the Centre, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has, in multiple public addresses, assured students that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the paper leak.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has announced the formation of fast-track courts to hear paper leak-related cases.