JNU rolls back controversial new rules which penalised dharnas
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New Delhi: The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) withdrew the newly drawn rules for students, which created waves among students' and teachers' communities, PTI reported.
The varsity rolled back the rules, which stated that students would face a fine of Rs 50,000 for physical violence, abuse and holding dharna on campus, the institution's vice-chancellor said on Thursday.
A 10-page document, titled 'Rules of Discipline and proper conduct of students of JNU', mandated that there would be punishment for different kinds of acts like protests and forgery, and procedures for proctorial enquiry and recording a statement. The punishment ranged from a fine of ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 50,000 or rustication and cancellation of admission.
It stated that a fine of Rs 50,000 would be imposed on students for physical violence, abuse and manhandling towards another student, staff, or faculty member.
JNU VC Santishree D Pandit told PTI, "I was not aware of such a circular. I am in Hubli for an international conference. The chief proctor did not consult me before releasing the document. I was not aware that such a document was being drafted. I got to know about the document through newspapers. That is why I have withdrawn it."
After the release of the document earlier, students and teachers of the university alike condemned it, terming them "draconian".
