Rahul Gandhi Hits Out at Universities Over Student Protest Advisories

New Delhi, July 24, 2026 The debate over students' participation in public protests has intensified after Delhi University and several other institutions advised students to stay away from demonstrations linked to the demand for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The advisories, issued in the interest of safety and legal compliance, have triggered political reactions and renewed discussions on students' democratic rights and freedom of expression. Delhi University urged students to avoid "unlawful assemblies" at Jantar Mantar, citing Supreme Court directions and warning that participation could lead to legal consequences while affecting academic progress and future career opportunities. The university also cautioned students against fake and misleading content circulating online. Jawaharlal Nehru University issued a similar advisory, asking students to prioritise their safety, avoid gatherings around Jantar Mantar, and exercise responsibility on social media, warning that violations could invite legal and disciplinary action. Reacting to the advisory, Rahul Gandhi wrote on X, "How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights?" He further added, "Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes."** Actor and filmmaker Pooja Bhatt also criticised the move, saying, "The students' safety is more in jeopardy if their voices are suppressed. If we are truly invested in their future, we must support their right to speak out rather than maintain a conspiracy of silence." Congress MP Deepender Hooda questioned the university's reference to Supreme Court directions and criticised the advisory. The issue has also reached other institutions. IIT Roorkee clarified that its advisory discouraging participation in political movements was part of its routine annual communication and not a new policy. Meanwhile, a student at IIT Madras claimed that students were asked to remove Instagram posts supporting the protests. As the debate continues, the differing responses from universities, political leaders and public figures have brought renewed focus on the balance between campus regulations, student safety and democratic participation.