JNU Fines Two Hostel Students Rs 1.79 Lakh for Drinking, Using Hookah, and Allowing Outsiders

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has imposed fines totalling Rs 1.79 lakh on two hostel students for serious violations of hostel rules. These include allowing unauthorised individuals into their rooms, consuming alcohol, using a hookah, and engaging in aggressive behaviour. Official notices regarding the fines were issued on 8 January, with instructions for the students to pay the penalties within five days.

According to the first notice, one student was found to have allowed 12 unauthorised individuals into their room, where alcohol was consumed, and a disturbance was created in the hostel premises. The student was reportedly absent during the incident. The total fine imposed on this student amounts to Rs 80,000. This includes Rs 60,000 for permitting unauthorised entry, Rs 2,000 for alcohol consumption, Rs 6,000 for possessing an induction stove and heater, Rs 2,000 for hookah use, and Rs 10,000 for displaying aggressive behaviour, interfering in official matters, and intimidating hostel staff.

The second notice details similar violations by another student. On two occasions, 22 December and 5 January, outsiders were found in their room, where alcohol was consumed. When security personnel and members of the Warden Committee attempted to enter the room, the student refused to open the door. For these violations, the student has been fined Rs 99,000. The amount includes Rs 85,000 for allowing unauthorised individuals into their room on two occasions, Rs 2,000 for consuming alcohol, Rs 2,000 for possessing a hookah, and Rs 10,000 for aggressive and disruptive behaviour.

The notices warn both students that failure to pay the fines within the stipulated time could lead to further disciplinary action, including eviction from the hostel. They also emphasise that any future violations will result in immediate eviction without prior notice.

Reacting to the penalties, Kunal Kumar, a former president of Sutlej Hostel, criticised the fines, calling them excessive and unreasonable. He remarked, “In a university where the semester fee is only Rs 200, students are being fined amounts ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh. These fines are being imposed on those who do not support the ABVP.”

(With inputs from PTI)