Delhi University law students clash with police over exam schedule

Delhi University law students clash with police over exam schedule

A protest staged by law students at Delhi University's Campus Law Centre escalated on Monday, resulting in a tense standoff with police. The demonstration was driven by student demands for an extension to the examination schedule, citing academic disruptions.

According to students, the protest began early in the morning, with hundreds gathering to voice concerns over incomplete syllabus coverage, mid-course faculty changes, and last-minute curriculum updates. Tensions reportedly escalated when protesters attempted to approach the Dean of the Faculty of Law.

Students alleged that police resorted to lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd, resulting in injuries to several individuals. However, Delhi Police firmly denied these claims.

"We were holding a peaceful demonstration for hours, hoping the administration would address our grievances. Instead, police action was used to intimidate us," a protesting student told PTI.

Visuals from the scene showed a heavy police presence, with officers equipped with batons stationed around the protest site. Verbal clashes between students and police were also witnessed.

Responding to the situation, a senior police officer stated that authorities were called in after some students reportedly blocked the dean’s office, preventing her from leaving.

"Senior officials, including DCP (North) Raja Bantiha, intervened to de-escalate the situation. Some students even met with the dean, and the matter is now under control," the officer clarified to PTI, reiterating that no lathi charge or tear gas was used during the operation.

Despite multiple attempts, Anju Vali Tikoo, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, remained unavailable for comment.

The protest highlights ongoing tensions between university administrations and students, driven by concerns over academic disruptions and inconsistent scheduling, which have become recurring issues in recent months.