News Desk | Ground Scoop
A clash broke out between two student groups during Diwali celebrations at Jamia Millia Islamia University on Tuesday evening, leading to police deployment outside the campus as a precautionary step. According to Southeast Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), the altercation occurred between 7:30 and 8:00 PM near Gate 7 of the university.
The incident unfolded when a group of students affiliated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) was decorating the campus with diyas and rangolis for Diwali. Reportedly, another group of students objected to their activities, damaged the decorations, and a physical confrontation ensued. Both groups engaged in sloganeering, prompting the university to call in security forces. The situation was brought under control, and students were dispersed by 9 PM.
Although no formal complaints have been lodged, a police officer confirmed the incident, adding that they were present on-site overnight to prevent further disturbances. The event was organized by Rashtriya Kala Manch (RKM), a cultural wing of the ABVP. The ABVP has planned to resume its “Deep Mahotsav” celebration on Wednesday evening.
Efforts by Ground Scoop to reach Jamia Millia Islamia University’s officiating Vice Chancellor, Mohammad Shakeel, went unanswered. However, reports indicate that tensions escalated when one group disrupted the other’s Diwali celebrations. Fortunately, university security was able to diffuse the situation before it escalated further.
Videos circulating on social media purportedly show students chanting communal slogans on campus, sparking concerns of unrest. As a result, police increased their presence around the university gates and nearby areas. Despite the incident, ABVP students are determined to continue their celebrations. ABVP’s national media convener, Ashutosh Singh, remarked, “All educational institutions should allow the celebration of various festivals. If Iftar parties are permitted, Diwali celebrations should be too.” He also confirmed that they had received permission from the proctor’s office for the event. Singh further alleged that while some Muslim students were participating in the celebrations, radical elements disrupted the event and attacked them. He criticized the university for not taking preventive measures, considering the sensitivity of the situation. The ABVP plans to file a police complaint regarding the altercation.
Anonymous students told Ground Scoop that incidents like these damage the university’s reputation. “Hindus and Muslims have coexisted peacefully here for years. It is politically motivated students and outsiders who are tarnishing the institution’s image,” one student said.
Police remain vigilant, monitoring the campus to prevent further tensions.
