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JNU Students Launch Indefinite Strike Over Fee Hikes and Academic Freedom

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 22:48 GMT by The New Indian Express
      Locales: Delhi, INDIA

New Delhi, February 12th, 2026 - Students of the School of Social Sciences at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have commenced an indefinite strike today, February 12th, 2026, in protest against what they describe as a sustained and increasingly repressive crackdown by the university administration. The strike, announced late yesterday, centers around escalating concerns regarding substantial fee hikes and what students claim is a dangerous curtailment of academic freedom within the historically vibrant and politically engaged institution.

The immediate trigger for the strike appears to be a recent decision by the administration to significantly increase tuition and other associated fees for students in the School of Social Sciences. Students argue that these increases are not only financially burdensome but are deliberately designed to exclude students from marginalized communities, effectively limiting access to higher education for those who can least afford it. Several student groups have released data suggesting the fee hikes could price out up to 30% of current students from economically weaker sections.

However, the fee increases are seen as symptomatic of a broader pattern of administrative overreach. Students allege a systematic attempt to control academic discourse, stifle dissent, and undermine the autonomy of various departments and centers within the School of Social Sciences. Specific complaints include increased administrative interference in curriculum design, limitations on guest lectures and seminars featuring critical voices, and a lack of transparency in decision-making processes.

"This isn't just about the fees," explained Anya Sharma, a leading student activist and spokesperson for the striking students. "This is about the very soul of JNU. For decades, this university has been a beacon of intellectual freedom and critical thinking. The administration's actions are a direct assault on those values. They are attempting to transform JNU into just another institution where conformity is prized above independent thought."

The strike is already causing significant disruption on campus. Ongoing semester examinations are facing delays, and regular classes have been suspended. Students have erected protest sites at key locations, including the administration block and the iconic Ganga Das Gate. Plans are underway for a series of demonstrations, rallies, and public lectures aimed at raising awareness about their concerns and garnering support from the wider academic community.

So far, the JNU administration has remained largely silent on the matter. While sources within the administration have indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with student representatives, no formal communication or concrete proposals have been made publicly. This silence is fueling student frustration and hardening their resolve. Concerns are mounting that the administration is attempting to weather the storm by ignoring the students' demands, hoping the strike will eventually lose momentum.

However, the strike is already attracting solidarity from student groups and faculty members at other universities across India. Online campaigns are gaining traction, with the hashtag #SaveJNU trending on social media platforms. Several prominent academics have issued statements expressing their support for the JNU students and condemning what they see as an attack on academic freedom.

The situation at JNU mirrors a growing trend of increasing control and restrictions on academic institutions across the country. Critics argue that the government and university administrations are increasingly intolerant of dissent and are actively attempting to suppress critical voices. This has led to a series of protests and demonstrations at universities across India in recent years.

The long-term implications of the JNU strike remain to be seen. If the administration fails to address the students' concerns, it could lead to a prolonged crisis that further erodes the university's reputation and academic standing. However, if the strike succeeds in forcing the administration to reconsider its policies, it could set a precedent for other universities and help to safeguard academic freedom in India. The next few days are crucial, and all eyes are on JNU as the standoff between students and administration intensifies.