The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi, January 7 — Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) International Working President Alok Kumar on Wednesday strongly condemned the raising of what he described as provocative and offensive slogans at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), stating that the incident amounted to yet another violation of the sanctity of the institution.
In an official statement, Kumar said the slogans targeted the Prime Minister and others, calling them crude and unacceptable. He noted that the protest was reportedly triggered by the denial of bail to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots.
“The sanctity of Jawaharlal Nehru University has once again been breached,” Kumar said, adding that such actions undermine academic values and democratic norms. Referring to judicial observations, he pointed out that the Supreme Court has noted the presence of direct, corroborative, and contemporaneous evidence against both accused, and has observed their “central and formative role” in the alleged larger conspiracy behind the violence during the Delhi riots.
Kumar further stated that Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam face serious allegations related to conspiracy against the unity and territorial integrity of India. He described these as grave charges and said it would be appropriate to allow the judicial process to continue, giving the accused an opportunity to prove their innocence during trial.
Condemning the manner in which the incident unfolded, Kumar said it was unfortunate that a small group chose to disrupt the campus atmosphere late at night instead of exercising restraint. He termed the act “shameful and cowardly” and welcomed the university’s decision to file an FIR, calling for a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible.
Emphasizing the boundaries of free speech, Kumar said democracy and freedom of expression do not permit actions that incite hatred or violence. “Slogans about digging graves are indecent, criminal, and a clear violation of democratic rights,” he said.
He concluded by stating that such incidents serve as a reminder of internal threats and reinforce the need for constant vigilance to safeguard liberty.
