JNU students on indefinite fast over campus infrastructure
Students of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) affiliated to the Progressive Students’ Association (PSA) have been on an indefinite hunger strike since September 27 over demands relating to hostel accommodation, library infrastructure, PhD admissions, campus safety and the suspension of JNUSU office bearers.
Four students have been fasting at the Sabarmati T-Point on campus since September 27, members said.
The protesters said their weight and blood sugar levels have dropped drastically, with some also facing blood pressure issues, even as the administration has not initiated dialogue with them.
According to the PSA, the administration has so far only sent a medical team for daily check-ups and has not sent any representative to meet the agitating students.
The students have called for immediate action on several issues, including hostel accommodation for all students and urgent renovation of hostels and dormitories, an increase in library seating capacity and improvement of library infrastructure, and transparent and timely PhD admissions, including the release of admission notifications and data.
They have also demanded the reinstatement of GS CASH (Gender Sensitisation Committee Against Sexual Harassment) as an autonomous mechanism for addressing complaints of sexual harassment, revocation of the suspension of JNUSU office bearers, and improvement of basic facilities such as water supply, Wi-Fi, reading spaces and other essential infrastructure.
The protesting students said these issues directly affect their academic lives and access to basic facilities on campus, and they would continue the hunger strike until the administration responds meaningfully.
The PSA has reiterated its demand for immediate and meaningful dialogue with the administration and concrete steps towards addressing the issues raised.
